15 August 2007

THE POWER IN YOU

By Roselyn Nyakundi

Bold and bright as children, we often allow life to rob us of our self-esteem and confidence as we grow up. We forget that inherently powerful and wonderful. Janet Bauer (pictured with teacher Leonard and some children from Valley View Academy in Mathare on 15th June 2007) is an international trainer and one of the things she focuses on is bringing hope to children and adults by taking them through a training session that builds their self esteem by focusing on how great they are.

While in Kenya in June, Janet conducted such workshops to HWWK staff, Nairobi Christian Church teenagers and support group of people living with HIV, a school for the physically challenged, a secondary (high) school and to several children’s groups. Valley View Academy in Mathare, and Mukuru Centre of HOPE Kidz Clubs were among the groups that Janet took through her fun and empowering program.

The one-and-half hour session provided opportunities for children to feel that they are important and build their sense of uniqueness. Even as the children finished the session one could tell the transformation. Whereas when they started they were quite and fearful, the end of the session saw them smiling and a sparkle in their eyes.

The course is based on Janet’s conviction that children are inherently great and they all have special qualities. Recognizing this makes the children proud of who they are and gives them a sense of self-worth. As children and even later as adults, they are able to establish themselves and even support other members of the community. Children need to know that others recognize their special qualities and talents. The session encourages adults who work with the children to find opportunities to point these out to them, and thus allows children to blossom, brighten and bloom as their self-esteem is boosted and confidence bolstered.

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