We are happy to be here! After 30 hours travelling with 16 pieces of luggage checked (full of caps, gowns, diplomas, certificates and signs for graduates), these 8 weary team members were ecstatic to make it to Nairobi, then on to Naivasha for a hot meal, a warm shower and a cozy bed.
We spent our first full day visiting with current Panua youth from the Kabati and Kihoto neighborhoods, and we were able to meet some potential youth from the Viwandani neighborhood. Their stories of what Panua means to them are incredibly touching. They worked diligently on our Mosaic heart project and fully embraced cutting and gluing tile, which will be part of displays at the Panua office in Naivasha, our church in Winter Park and at Cornerstone UMC in Naples, FL.
The youth were extremely patient while each was called up to receive their sponsor letter, and returned to their seat to delve into the latest encouragement from their sponsor. Our team was encouraged hearing all that Panua means to this group as they prepare for graduation. We also watched the potential youth as they observed the current group and concluded that while Panua literally means “expand” in Swahili, it also means family, support, courage and love.