another
kind of
christmas
The PROJECT.
“Another Kind of Christmas” is educational camp in Turkana (kenya) to empower girls and women through education and mentorship
“Another Kind of Christmas” was initiated by Strathmore University in 2019 as part of the Strathmore Turkana Education Program (STEP).
Since 2023, it is an international project and over 40 women from eight different countries have participated on-site as volunteers.
The main partners of this project are the Catholic Missionary Community of St. Paul the Apostle and the NGO “Girls on Fire Leaders”.
The BARRIERS.
Turkana County, located in northern Kenya, is an arid region frequently affected by droughts and a severe shortage of food and water. With 88% of the population living below the poverty line and only 3% having access to secondary education, the challenges are immense. The primary barrier to education is the lack of secondary school infrastructure, compounded by families' inability to afford schooling elsewhere. For girls, education is even more inaccessible due to factors such as child marriage, cultural barriers, and the absence of female role models.
Our BACKGROUND.
After16 years of permanent presence of the Missionary Community of St.Paul in Turkana, the first generations of educated young people are finishing school.
It is a time of hope in Turkana, as young people begin to envision futures beyond traditional roles of shepherding or homemaking, enriching their community's future.
The youth in Turkana does not only need financial support, but also education orientation, 1:1 mentoring, life and leadership skills and role models in the community.
Aftermovie 2024
Aftermovie 2023
Our ACTIVITIES.
Girls Leadership
Our Girls Leadership Program is supported by the NGO "Girls of Fire Leaders", aiming to transform teenage girls into empowered and influential women who inspire and uplift others.
In our Another Kind of Christmas Holiday Camp, we are equipping local girls with the tools, experiences and role models needed to step into leadership roles and ultimately break the cycle of poverty and developing a new generation. Through mentorship, open discussions, and hands-on activities, we tackle leadership principles like self-confidence, courage, humility and service.
Youth Mentorship
Our Youth Mentorship Program is aiming to support young adults transitioning from high school to college or the working. Through our Youth Mentorship program at Another Kind of Christmas, we empower young adults with the guidance, skills, and confidence they need to take the next step in their journey.
From career advice to personal growth, relationships to leadership development, these sessions are all about preparing for the future and making dreams become reality.
Women Entrepreneurship
In Turkana, many women have never had the chance to attend school. Limited education often leave them without opportunities to earn an income. By equipping uneducated women with fundamental skills in inventory management, accounting, and planning, we are laying the foundation for sustainable beadwork businesses.
This initiative not only provides a path to financial independence but also expands their horizons, motivates them to learn, and gives them a sense of purpose and recognition. Our dedicated team of volunteers continues to support and grow this project—because when a woman thrives, so does her family and community.
School Revision
Our School Revision program is dedicated to helping primary school students strengthen their skills in Math and English, building confidence and unlocking new opportunities.
With the support of passionate volunteers, the students engage in interactive learning sessions, fun exercises, and group activities that make revision both effective and enjoyable. Watching their determination and excitement reminds us that education is the greatest gift we can give this season. Every small step in learning leads to big dreams for the future.
Long-term Impact
Our vision of empowering women through education becomes a reality in a very specific way: through scholarships. Educating one girl at a time.
Our Fundraising Campaigns complements our “Another Kind of Christmas” camps. The purpose is to ensure the long term impact of this project giving girls and women financial resources to continue with their education.
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Social Media
Stay updated by following us on Instagram and get real-life impressions of our time in Kenya on Youtube.
