The afternoon was filled with energy, laughter and celebration as sport and music took centre stage at Maisha Yangu. Our brilliant student leaders organised and ran a football tournament for the visiting children, who proudly took to the pitch wearing their brand-new kits, generously donated by the GIS community. The pride on their faces was unmistakable, and the area quickly came alive with excitement, cheering and laughter as members of the local community gathered to watch and support.
The fun continued as GIS students and staff faced off against the Maisha Yangu team in a friendly match - a moment full of teamwork, connection and brilliant fun. As the tournament came to an end, music filled the air and the children burst into energetic dancing, transforming the space into a joyful celebration.
To close our time with the younger children, Laila treated everyone to a beautiful musical performance that captured the hearts of all who watched. The children sat mesmerised, completely absorbed in the moment, as her talent and confidence brought the afternoon to a perfect close.
We then said a heartfelt goodbye to the school children - a moment filled with hugs, smiles and a few tears. In such a short time, these incredible children had touched our hearts and truly changed us, and it was clear that the impact had gone both ways. The connections formed, the laughter shared and the experiences we’d had together made it incredibly hard to say goodbye, but also deeply meaningful knowing we had played a small part in their lives.
As one group departed, we warmly welcomed the next set of students - the inspiring young people who attend Maisha Yangu in the evenings to strengthen their academic skills. Our students quickly got to work supporting them with homework, reading and study activities, working side by side with patience, kindness and encouragement. Alongside their learning, the children received what is often their only meal of the day - a simple cup of porridge - a powerful reminder of the vital role Maisha Yangu plays in supporting its community beyond education alone.
Our time at Maisha Yangu has been incredibly moving, humbling and heart-warming. Before leaving, we came together as a group to share our thoughts and reflections, and it was clear just how deeply the experience had affected everyone. Students spoke openly about the emotions they felt, the perspectives they had gained and how the community had left a lasting mark on them. These shared reflections powerfully highlighted the impact of the experience and reinforced how meaningful the connections had been.
The memories created, the bonds formed and the sense of belonging felt within this remarkable community will stay with them for a lifetime - a true testament to the power of service, compassion and connection.