This is a success story about a group of youths who united to tackle one of their biggest challenges, proving that problems can be solved when we all join hands. During my community integration, I stopped by my favorite spot to buy a banana, expecting to see the familiar face of the mother who usually runs the kiosk. To my surprise, her two sons were working there that day, joined by three of their friends. After making my purchase, I introduced myself as a CorpsAfrica Volunteer, sparking a conversation that quickly turned to empathy and curiosity. I learned that these young boys are high school students who spend their holidays helping their parents. Intrigued, I wanted to learn more about how they spend their school breaks and what motivates them every day. This made me schedule for our next meeting and I encouraged them to invite even more friends.
At the meeting, I explained to them what CorpsAfrica does and how Junior CorpsAfrica nurtures young minds like them to embrace volunteerism and its benefit to them and the entire community. I also introduced the innovators’ compass, a tool they quickly grasped, and together we identified their primary challenge- they lacked a ball for their games, even though they already had a playground. I emphasized the importance of teamwork in achieving shared goals, like purchasing a ball, instead of waiting for someone else to provide it. We decided to contribute the little we had, the twenty bobs, thirty bobs, fifty bobs, any amount was appreciated. I helped them form a small committee that facilitated the fundraiser drive. We spread the word, inspiring more youths to join the effort, and used proformas to ask for financial support from parents and friends. My Program Coordinator, Mr. Samuel Matiru, also stepped in to support, and with everyone’s help, we soon raised enough money to buy the ball. This is the power of the community-led development model; people’s mindsets are changed and they realize how capable they are of being their saviors.
The youths are now happy to have a ball of their own, spending most of their time playing football. This activity not only brings them together but also keeps them fit, engaged, and away from potentially harmful behaviors. They are called the Eleven Stars and their vision is to keep shining in sports and go beyond the horizons. They also wish to make a positive difference in their community through volunteerism, this is the power of Junior CorpsAfrica. Apart from playing football, they come together to carry out clean-up exercises in their parents’ compounds and help in the farming activities. Junior CorpsAfrica is a gateway to nurturing young minds to lead, serve, and shape a brighter future.
The simple act of coming together for a shared goal has turned into a positive outlet that strengthens their bonds and adds excitement to their days. Truly, alone we can do so little, together we can do so much.
