Babu Chris, GOYN Mombasa

In the quiet coastal city of Mombasa Town, where the waves meet the shore, a transformative initiative is underway driven by the PAMOJA Youth Group. This initiative seeks to empower the vibrant Swahili youth of Mombasa County, specifically Jomvu, Mikindani area, through a unique opportunity – a three-month parallel program designed to provide hands-on learning by certified professionals within the community.

At the heart of this program lies a simple yet profound idea: empowerment through literacy and offering youth access to real-world skills and mentorship from certified professionals who are members of the PAMOJA youth group. Through shadowing, participants have the opportunity to immerse themselves in diverse fields of interest, gaining invaluable knowledge, practical insights, and mentorship from those who have walked the path before them, addressing key aspects of youth empowerment.

Through PAMOJA’s parallel program, participants are paired with peer mentors who serve as guides, confidants, and sources of inspiration. These mentors offer invaluable advice, share personal anecdotes, and provide constructive feedback, fostering the potential of the next generation of leaders. The program offers skills acquisition, whether it be entrepreneurship, environmental conservation, maritime trade, or community development. By acquiring practical skills and industry-specific knowledge, participants are better equipped to pursue their career aspirations and contribute meaningfully to Mombasa’s economy.

By participating in this parallel program, young people not only gain access to peer mentors, but they also expand their connections – the currency of success in today’s interconnected world. These connections can open doors to job opportunities and collaborations, paving the way for future success. Through hands-on learning and mentoring, young people in the program develop a sense of self-confidence as they solve challenges and acquire new skills. This confidence enables them to pursue their goals with conviction, resilience, and optimism.

So far, the parallel programme has fostered a sense of community among Mombasa youth, their peer mentors and local stakeholders, creating a supportive ecosystem where everyone has a role to play in nurturing potential. The youth have developed a sense of belonging and ownership, strengthening their commitment to building a better future for themselves and the city of Mombasa.

In conclusion, the three-month parallel programme offered by PAMOJA Youth Group in Mombasa City represents a ray of hope and opportunity for coastal youth. By providing access to skills, mentoring and community support, this initiative enables young people to chart their own course towards a prosperous and fulfilling future.

As they embark on this transformative journey, the youth of Mombasa carry with them the promise of a better tomorrow, where their dreams can soar on the wings of empowerment.