On the 28^th of January 2017, Macheo mentors met in the university and drove to Nairobi club in upper hill for a review of last year’s events and put a plan for this year. A total of 28 Strathmore Student (mentors), who volunteers to be part of the program both as character formation mentors and academic advisors to the student they mentor were present.

This day had been zealously awaited by both the mentors and the program coordinators as it would give mentors a chance to air out areas where they felt needed improvement as well as getting a chance to celebrate the achievements of the previous year.

The event was graced by the Program Director; Mr. Luis Borrallo, the Ag. Director, Advancement & External Relations office, Mr. Eric Saulo; Lecturer Dr. John Olukuru (who is also the trainer for the male mentors); and Michael Babu from the Community Outreach program office.

During the first session, Mr. Saulo presented a topic on – Essentials to Mentorship Towards better Character. One message that was clear was that one cannot teach good character if they are devoid of the same. To this end he urged the mentors to have a zeal and passion to live virtuous lives, lives full of character that can be emulated. He hinted that the best lessons as far as character formation is concerned are acquired through observation. He communicated the need for friendships and confidence in a mentorship relationship, giving the mentors a few tips on how to build the two.

Dr. Olukuru discussed the session on Practical Mentorship Activities. Relating from his experience with CityWise Scotland, and through mentoring young men in and around the University, he unraveled to the mentors some practices that would reduce strains in the mentorship relationship. He took the mentors through defining mentorship and also listing qualities they thought were necessary for mentoring. The mentors had time for personal reflection on the role they have taken, reaffirming their commitment.

In the afternoon session, Mr. Borrallo guided the mentors on giving suggestions on issues that could add value to the mentorship program in line with; academic empowerment to the needy students, and character development. To finalize his session, Mr. Borrallo renewed the mentors’ contract.

With plans to increase the number of students supported by the program from 75 to 150, the mentors were tasked with the role of identifying other potential mentors that can be of help to the program.

Having discussed all that was planned for the day, mentors socialized over some of the best drip coffee makers at the venue and tea.

By Oliver Odoyo. Macheo Mentors’ chairman