While seven team members traveled to the coast to visit Angaza Camp and a new school in that area, the others stayed in Nairobi to serve at MOHI's Technical Training Institute, or MTTI, which is also known as "the skills center". It is a great example of how MOHI serves not only school age children, but also adults. There are many courses offered here, such as sewing, plumbing, hair design, welding, the catering class (which includes cooking and baking), and more. Students can choose from short courses to programs of study that are up to a few years long and even include the opportunity to take national exams and be certified in that area. Students may be MOHI graduates or other folks in the local community who are looking for a chance to learn a tangible skill and be empowered to find employment or begin a business and sustain themselves financially. While they learn, they are also exposed several times a week to devotions and worship and many begin attending church regularly as a result. So, not only do they find hope through their new skills, but also in the Lord - it's awesome and a a beautiful example of transformation!
During our time serving at MTTI, Nancy had a wonderful time in the cosmetology class, where the students were delighted to do her hair and nails and enjoy the opportunity to connect with her - she had the best time and her presence was a gift to these students and their instructors! Across the hallway, Cat worked with a group on cake decorating techniques, April worked with students to cook and prepare various recipes, and Jill worked with a group on baking. The kitchen was filled with energy, talking and laughter, concentration, and lots of learning. The students were all so eager to learn and try new things, to have the opportunity to work with different ingredients, and then to have the fun of sampling what we made! We were all impressed by how well they work together and follow directions. We felt, as they say in Kenya, "most welcome".
April and Jill had a business session with the director of MTTI, Francis, and some of the students in the afternoon to talk about future goals and dreams the students have and about how small steps forward can lead to big things. After that, the four of us had a celebration with the students and staff that included worship, sharing small gifts, prayers, cake, and words of encouragement.
On the drive back to our MOHI lodging with our wonderful MOHI driver, Steve, we ended up needing almost 3 hours instead of 30 minutes to get back due to a very intense storm that passed through and caused many roads to be blocked by downed trees. Steve was so calm and patient - he said he had never seen such a bad storm, so even that part of our day was an experience to remember.
Each day we felt so thankful to partner with MOHI and see God's goodness all around us.
Comments
Post a Comment