Studies at Daraja go well beyond the required curriculum for Kenyan secondary schools. This week, the girls got started on their extracurricular clubs and pushed a little further into their WISH classes (Women of Integrity, Strength and Hope).

New clubs – Special clubs started up for Term 3 this week. The girls had a choice between art, conservation and science, drama, Grassroots girls and media club. Each club will have special field trips, guest speakers and activities as the term progresses.

This week, the drama club traveled to town to participate in an acting workshop. Alice N. said the group got to see a photo art exhibit before meeting with an acting coach who encouraged them to reach for their goals if they want to pursue a career in the arts.

The art club worked with ActionAid volunteer Gry Brøndum to create their own journals. Gry taught the girls how to sew pages together, bind the pages and cover the books in colorful fabrics. With the amount of interest shown by other girls on campus, the art club members are going to be busy teaching their new skills!

WISH – In their women’s empowerment class, the Form 3 girls learned about leadership and the power of good leaders. “It’s about going back to our communities and changing them. The best change happens when you are a leader,” said Teacher Victoria, who taught the lesson. The girls drew pictures of what they thought a good leader is like – there were drawings of a woman holding a boy’s hand and a girl’s hand to symbolize equality, open-armed leaders, and leaders with big ears and hands to listen and do.

The Form 2s continued working on career exploration with Jenni and the Form 1s talked about choices. They discussed what choice they would make after graduation from Daraja: continue their education, get a job to save money, get married, or take a short rest. The girls are definitely enthusiastic about continuing their education and finding jobs – for most, marriage is going to have to wait.

Irene W., Jesica and Euphrasia preparing to present their experiences with hard choices

A fond farewell – to Maria Kelly and Bennett Horsley. Maria and Bennett arrived on campus back in September, 2010. Maria, who is completing her Master of Arts in Teaching, has been interviewing and working with the girls as part of her research. Bennett has been helping out all over campus as well as volunteering at the Likii Special Education School in Nanyuki.  We wish them the best of luck back at home!