As the Form Four students at Michelle Winners High School in Githurai 44 prepared for their Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) exams, they were also facing one of life’s most important questions: What comes next? In the midst of this pivotal time, we had the privilege of guiding these young minds during our final Reach for the Stars session, an inspiring career exploration workshop dedicated to equipping them with the confidence and tools needed for their next steps into adulthood.

Building Foundations for Success

This wasn’t just another lecture; it was a hands-on experience. We divided the students into five groups, each equipped with flipcharts, ready to brainstorm and chart their strengths, interests, and potential career paths. Through teamwork and reflection, they discovered their unique talents and discussed how these might shape their futures. When group representatives presented their findings, there was a tangible sense of pride and purpose. These moments of teamwork didn’t just ignite excitement but set the groundwork for real self-discovery, providing a platform for these students to envision a future where their strengths and ambitions align.

Embracing Open-Mindedness

One of our key messages was the power of open-mindedness in career choices. We challenged students to break free from traditional career paths and consider emerging fields that align with their passions. For instance, a student intrigued by law yet unsure about public speaking could explore roles like legal research or paralegal work, areas that make full use of their analytical skills without the pressures of courtroom debate.

With today’s fast-evolving job market, careers like content creation, data science, and e-commerce are not just viable—they’re thriving. These students learned that side hustles and alternative careers are real possibilities, opening the door to pursue multiple passions in their professional journeys. They came to understand that by remaining open-minded, they could forge their own unique paths to success.

The power of role models and mentorship

A journey is easier when someone has walked it before you. We emphasized the value of mentorship, urging the form four students to seek role models in their chosen fields who can offer advice, share real-life experiences, and serve as sources of inspiration. Whether through internships, apprenticeships, or volunteer work, these role models can provide crucial insights into the demands and rewards of various professions. This is how students can bridge the gap between classroom knowledge and real-world applications.

Resources for the road ahead

To empower these young learners further, we left them with valuable resources to continue their career exploration. Websites that match skills to potential careers, educational magazines, and campus career guides now serve as stepping stones toward informed and empowered decision-making. These tools equip them to take charge of their future with confidence.

Looking Forward

As we reflect on this session, we feel a profound sense of optimism. These young people are standing on the threshold of endless possibilities, bolstered by the knowledge, skills, and mentorship that will shape their journeys. They’ve shown an eagerness to explore, to adapt, and to dream—a combination that holds immense promise.

We are excited to see where their paths will lead, and we are honored to have been a part of their journey. The future holds boundless opportunities for each of them, and we can’t wait to witness the impact they’ll make in the world.

Read more about our other programs here.