A Journalist’s Mission to Empower Youth in Nandi Hills
In the heart of Eldoret, Kenya, a young journalist named Leonard Arap Kirwa is making waves not just through his work on air but through his commitment to uplifting the youth in his community. While the traditional role of a journalist includes educating, informing, and entertaining, Kirwa has taken it a step further by launching initiatives that focus on empowerment and skill development.
Over the past four years, Kirwa has been actively involved in supporting programs aimed at the youth in his home constituency, Nandi Hills. As a presenter on Upendo FM, he uses his platform to highlight issues affecting young people and to inspire them to take charge of their futures.
Digital Skills Training: A Gateway to Opportunity
One of Kirwa’s most recent and impactful initiatives is offering subsidized computer training to young people in the area. This program equips participants with essential digital skills that are increasingly vital in today’s rapidly evolving world. So far, 53 youth have completed the training and received certificates, with more expected to follow.
“I started this initiative because I believe that digital literacy is key to unlocking opportunities for our youth,” Kirwa explained. “It’s not just about learning how to use computers; it’s about preparing them for the future.”
The program has already made a significant difference in the lives of many young people. Denis Kibet, one of the graduates, shared how the training has helped him gain new skills that could lead to employment or even self-employment. Beatrice Jepkosgei echoed similar sentiments, stating that the opportunity has given her a sense of purpose and direction.
Beyond Technology: Nurturing Talent and Sports
While digital skills are a major focus, Kirwa’s efforts extend beyond technology. He has also been instrumental in nurturing talent through grassroots football tournaments. His first tournament was held in 2020 and continues to be an annual event, with this year's edition set for October. These events provide a platform for local talent to shine and promote community engagement.
Additionally, Kirwa has supported training programs for boda boda operators, aiming to improve their safety and professionalism. These initiatives reflect his broader vision of empowering the youth in various ways, ensuring they are equipped to contribute positively to society.
Expanding the Reach
With the success of the initial training programs, Kirwa is now looking to expand his efforts to reach more regions within Nandi County. He plans to collaborate with more institutions to ensure that a larger number of young people can benefit from these opportunities.
“I’m committed to making sure no one is left behind in the digital revolution,” Kirwa said. “This is just the beginning, and I promise that there are even greater things coming.”
Balancing Work and Community Engagement
Despite his busy schedule as a radio presenter, Kirwa manages to balance his professional responsibilities with his community work. He often uses his leave days and off-hours to plan and engage with the youth in Nandi Hills. For him, this work is not just a duty but a deeply fulfilling part of his life.
Other Initiatives: Economic Empowerment Through Agriculture
In a separate but equally important effort, journalists in Nakuru have taken a different approach to economic empowerment. A group of journalists in the region has invested in potato farming, leasing land in Narok to cultivate potatoes. They anticipate a profit of KSh 100,000 from this venture and are exploring other investment opportunities that could help them achieve homeownership and financial independence.
These diverse initiatives highlight the growing trend among journalists to not only report on societal issues but also to actively participate in creating positive change. Whether through digital training, sports, or agriculture, these efforts underscore the power of community-driven solutions in addressing challenges faced by the youth.