Communications | Kisa Program | Health Sessions | 13th December 2024
Imagine a young girl with leadership potential and clear ambitions, determined to succeed. Yet, mental health challenges and limited knowledge about her well-being stand in her way, making her dreams seem unattainable. Now, envision the same girl equipped with vital knowledge about her health—mind, body, and reproductive well-being. With these tools, she confidently faces life’s challenges, pursues her goals, and contributes meaningfully to her community. Recognizing the importance of health education, GLAMI provides Health Sessions to Kisa Scholars twice a year—four times over the two-year Kisa Program. These sessions address critical health topics tailored to address the specific health concerns and interests of young women in today’s world, equipping them with the information they need to make informed decisions and thrive.
The topics discussed are based on the Scholars’ input and include sexually transmitted diseases and infections (STDs and STIs), menstruation, menstrual hygiene and management, sexual and reproductive health rights, and mental health and illness. These topics are rarely addressed in schools, making their inclusion in the Kisa Program essential to keeping our girls informed about their health.
This year, to foster a deeper connection between our Mentors and Kisa Scholars and create a more supportive environment and safe space for discussing health issues, we shifted our approach. Instead of relying solely on external health experts, we empowered our Program Mentors to lead these sessions as well. While topics related to mental health and illness were still addressed by medical professionals, the remaining topics were facilitated by our Program Mentors.
Our Mentors went through various training to ensure they are well-equipped to facilitate these sessions effectively. This training, delivered by health experts, equipped the Mentors with the knowledge and skills necessary to lead the sessions confidently while maintaining high-quality discussions. This approach not only strengthens the Mentors’ relationship with the Kisa Scholars but also ensures the Scholars continue to benefit from informed guidance. It is equally important for our Program Scholars to view their class as a safe space for discussing topics they may hesitate to talk about—especially regarding their health. This is why we have equipped our Mentors to facilitate these sessions. Scholars trust their Mentors as approachable and supportive individuals, creating a safe environment for addressing various concerns.
Our Mentor Coordinator emphasises on the importance of these sessions to be conducted by Mentors as she said, “… We recognize the importance of building a deeper connection between mentors and their mentees…By empowering our mentors who possess significant knowledge and understanding to lead these sessions, we minimize cost associated with expert facilitation while enhancing the ownership of the sessions and creating a safe space for health discussions. This approach not only fosters a stronger rapport between mentors and mentee but also ensures that health discussion continues in a supportive environment. ”- Ndiini, GLAMI Program Mentor
With Mentors equipped with the skills to facilitate these sessions and successfully leading them, many have shared feedback on how much their competence has grown in understanding and delivering health-related topics. Some even noted that the training they received not only enhanced their facilitation skills but also deepened their knowledge of health issues. Many Mentors observed how confidently their Scholars asked questions without fear and how engaging and interactive their classes had become. Here’s what they had to say:
“…These sessions have strengthened my relationships with my Scholars, making it easier for them to approach me with their health concerns. They now trust that I can offer support in these matters, fostering a more open and supportive environment.”
“Facilitating health sessions for Kisa Scholars has enhanced my competence in health-related issues. The questions scholars ask encourage me to delve deeper into available resources, which further boosts my confidence for future sessions. This experience continues to foster my growth as a Mentor”
“I feel a sense of empowerment in taking the lead in facilitating health sessions for our scholars. After a long period of expert guidance from doctors, this shift in roles not only enhances my own understanding of health topics but also allows me to share important knowledge with scholars. It is inspiring to engage with young minds, fostering discussions that promote better health practices and well being”
Mentor(s) facilitating a menstrual health session for Kisa Scholars
Scholars too find it easier to engage in discussions about sensitive topics with their Mentors, who understand their unique perspectives and experiences. Mentors facilitating these health sessions has led to increased engagement, comfort, understanding, and overall effectiveness of the sessions, truly creating a “Safe Space”. Here are insights from Scholars regarding the health sessions conducted by their mentors:
“In the recent session on menstruation and menstrual hygiene, our Mentor’s approach was refreshing. She created an atmosphere of trust, where I felt comfortable sharing experiences and asking questions I might have hesitated to ask an expert.” — Jane, Kisa Scholar
“During the session on sexual and reproductive health rights, our Mentor encouraged us to share our thoughts and ask questions without fear of judgment. Unlike other sessions, where the information felt one-sided, I felt empowered to explore difficult concepts and address misconceptions openly. Sessions led by Mentors allow for deeper understanding, comfort, and create a safe space for honest discussions.” — Najma, Kisa Scholar
The importance of these health sessions cannot be overstated. By equipping our Scholars with accurate information and resources, they experience a significant increase in knowledge and awareness of these critical topics. These sessions help to dispel myths, reduce stigma around health issues, and empower Scholars to make informed choices about their health and well-being. This knowledge enables them to navigate challenges with confidence, ultimately enhancing their overall quality of life.
Nasinyari said, “I’ve learned why it’s important to keep myself healthy. This helps me avoid transmissible diseases like gonorrhea and HIV. Not only that, but it will also allow me to focus more on my studies and have a brighter future. I will also be an ambassador to other girls outside of this program who haven’t had the privilege of receiving this education.”
The interactive approach of our health sessions encourages open dialogue, inviting Scholars to ask questions, share their experiences, and engage in discussions that foster a supportive and dynamic classroom environment. This approach creates a safe space where Scholars feel comfortable expressing their thoughts. Peer interaction is invaluable as it not only enhances learning but also builds lasting friendships among Scholars and their Mentors, encouraging ongoing conversations beyond the sessions. By prioritizing health education, we are paving the way for a brighter future for our Kisa Scholars and, by extension, their communities.
