Learning doesn’t end in school, and neither does a CMETrust scholarship. 

Three times a year, our scholars take part in school break programs organized by CMETrust during their school holidays in April, August, and December. These week-long programs focus on professional and personal development, so our scholars can build their self-esteem and confidence, and emerge from secondary school better prepared for future studies, the labour market, and the challenges of adult life. 

Each program begins with a one-on-one meeting between each scholar and a teacher from the community, to discuss their academic progress, challenges, and strategies for success. This is followed by a series of workshops facilitated by a wide variety of speakers and organizations. As part of this program, our scholars also participate in an activity aimed at giving back to their community, such as a community clean-up or tree-planting. Finally, we hold our annual meeting with parents and guardians during these school break programs. This is an excellent opportunity to receive feedback and discuss ways to improve our program.

We are always striving to offer new and relevant workshops during our school-break programs, so the students are always participating in new workshops. Some examples of past sessions include:

• How to succeed as an entrepreneur in a difficult environment, with Kevin Jemase of Tukooh Investments Ltd.
• Gender Activism and Integrity, with Racheal Mwikali of Msafara Africa
• Media and Journalism, with Annitah Raey of Milele FM and Elishifa Wangeshi of Ghetto Radio
• Using Art to Create Jobs, with Justus Omondi of Mathare Art Gallery
• HIV/AIDS, Drug abuse, and Life Skills, with the Kenya Red Cross
• Photography Workshop with the Mwelu Foundation and Slum TV (to create our Mathare in Focus calendars)

You can ensure our scholars continue to have access to these skill-building opportunities by donating to CMETrust today.