I was brought up in a dysfunctional family where I encountered all manner of abuse. Being a teenage girl in a rural set up was the most challenging thing. There was no one to address the physical and emotional changes that were happening in me; no one to listen to my fears and frustrations, no one to advise me on dealing with the many boys who made sexual advances, no one to advise me on how to behave when my parents physically fought in my presence. I was lonely, I was drowning, my world was crumbling. However, deep within me, I knew I was destined for greatness. Yet there was no one to call that destiny out of me.
All that while, I was under the sponsorship of Compassion International but it was until I made friendship with compassion International staff at my local church that I discovered my potential. I found people who could listen, advise and guide me. I got comfort when they shared their personal experiences. My destiny was taking shape after attending many trainings. The self-awareness topics made me appreciate the person I was, I learned to set realistic goals, overcome peer pressure, study the Bible, Pray, Communicate effectively, Lead and much more. I was equipped. People invested in my life. I attended at least 18 rigorous trainings of minimum 3 days each. My foundation was firm. I am who I am today largely because my foundation was set right.
Intentional training and mentorship to teenage girls is paramount. We cannot assume that our children will craft their life path. It is difficult and frustrating. I have been there. And that is why I developed these program; to reach out to the many teenagers that are vulnerable. Smart Mentorship Program walks with the children, through training and mentoring them. We understand that our Smart Mentors are not enough to reach every girl; we are equipping the women in all communities to take the initiative of mentoring girls.
Read my story on;
2. https://www.keepthefaith.co.uk/2015/03/10/called-to-serve-by-brenda-karimi-and-bekah-legg/
