In 2022, Growth Catalysts embarked on a mission to uncover inspirational stories from Kenya, focusing on young people who had overcome adversity. In a society like Kenya, many young individuals fall through the cracks of a trauma-organized system. Adults often dismiss youth problems as insignificant compared to their own, perpetuating a world filled with unequal pain.
Despite these challenges, we discovered a story that filled us with hope—hope for the future of young people and data to support the pathway that has helped many youths in Kwale County create space for each other and choose peace. This path involves community-led healing journeys, prompting the crucial question: Have you ever wondered what it looks like when youth take charge of their own healing?
We have a story for you!
Abigael found herself in the blue zone, feeling stuck and longing for connection and understanding. While actively involved in youth programs at Samba Sports Youth Agenda, she encountered an opportunity through Kumekucha Quest, a youth program by Green String Network. She applied and was accepted, embarking on a five-day encounter with a group of 15 youths where they learned to engage with their challenges using a solution-based approach.
Abigael and her peers soon went out to sensitize their community in Kwale about the challenges young people face. She was shocked to hear someone claim that youth do not have real problems, only adults do. It was then that she realized the lack of space for young people to share their pain or seek support was a societal issue, not a personal one.
Feeling liberated, Abigael hosted three different youth support circles for 12 weeks each. During each meeting, they would play, learn, and support each other. Whenever they bumped into each other outside the circles, they would embrace, check in, and share stories of hope. As time passed, different young people highlighted others who needed to learn the solution-based approach.
Abigael hosted her first circle using her limited resources, creating a safe learning space for 16 young people, including herself. Together, they journeyed week by week until each one began to thrive. In January 2024, she shared a testimonial detailing the progress each person had made over the two years they journeyed together.
Now, Abigael is preparing to open up her support circle to a new group of youths in 2024. We can’t wait to witness the transformation that will follow this new journey.
Read Abigael’s testimonial. If you would like to donate to Abigael’s journey, here is her project request.
Growth Catalysts 