The afternoon sessions established a valued connection between COP members and the children. We divided ourselves into groups with the children and engaged in enjoyable and moving mentorship sessions. Our topics ranged from friendships, excellence, responsibility, adolescence and many more. The children equally engaged us in interesting and intellectual discussions.

 

There was no better way to start February, the so dubbed, month of love, than with a great show of affection to young hearts. On this day, COP embarked on a two hour journey to Kangundo DEB primary school, a school for normal and visually impaired (blind) pupils.  Referred there by a COP member in her 3^rd year at the university, she being an alumna of this school, it felt good to know that we are plunging back into the heritage of one of Strathmore’s charity ambassador.

 

Upon arrival, jubilant shouts and murmurs from the children rented the air. It was amazing to have them recall COP members who had visited them back in 2012, a clear sign that our visit was worthwhile. This, however, posed a challenge to COP members on their maiden visit. 

 

After a lengthy moment of introductions, we were directed to start our chores for the day; the gentlemen to chop firewood while the ladies to do laundry for both the girls and boys sections. We all carried out our duties diligently undeterred by the hot sun, even those not used to such ‘heavy duty’ chores. The company from the children, who, even showcased their awesome abilities in singing, reciting news and cracking jokes kept us going.

 

I must admit their enthusiasm and sweetness in their innocent spirits is something that blinded us from realizing their visual impairment. Later on, we shared a meal of Muthokoi with the children when it was time for lunch. At this juncture, we got to learn some of their slang vocabulary such as, ‘peps’, to refer to the act of going for an additional round of a meal.

 

To unwind after the days’ activities, we played games and held one-on-one mentoring moments with the children. They opened up to us, and we encouraged and guided. The newly established relationships with the children will surely be lasting ones after they insisted on being left with our contacts. The goodbyes proved to be emotional and difficult for us all.

 

Mentorship is truly a key factor in leaving a mark and more so ‘making hearts smile’; this has been COP’s slogan for it’s’ outreach programs. The experience in Kangundo is truly a memorable one.

 

Written by Faith Kanja

Second year, Bachelor of Telecommunications