We at TYSA are very grateful for the continued support that you have continually offered to the girls in the community. We asked them to define their best moments in 2011 and we report it as they said it:

Felister Akirapa- Am happy that Ojilo has helped me to know soccer and now am a good player.

Betty Caudencia-I didn't new that I could go to school but through this organization am happy that am in school.

Irene Amutabi-I thank God we are all ok with no injury. I have been in school without paying anything. Am also happy that I have gone to Nairobi

Rose Apiyo-Am happy that am back to school after a small mess but I promise not to do that again and I advice all to keep discipline of your self

Ann Asubila - I worked with people with no quarrel this year. I have done my KCPE, pray for me to get good marks

June Chepkoech- If it were not this organization I could have not been where I am. I have gone to Mombasa and trained as a referee, I can now confidently officiate any game.

We at TYSA management want to share our gratitude to what you have done to the girls. It is our desire that you will find this year another opportunity to support the girls. The project was featured in the GG Thank you Video, http://www.globalgiving.org/thank-you-2011/ , have a look and share it with your friends. We are proud of YOU!

As shared in our last report, we did organize the December Holiday Play sessions which was to mark the 10th anniversary of our organization. This brought all the programs, stakeholders and partners together. This was one of the most exciting activities that TYSA has organized in the recent past. It was an event that lasted for 10 days with all excitements. Over 1500 youth and community members participated in the celebrations.

As outlined; December Holiday Play and Mentorship Activities, junior mentorship Camp for under 14 years children including those with disability, Keeping My Dream Alive camp for vulnerable girls, and Play and learn Tournament for youth above 15 years and computer sessions were all organized. Junior mentorship camp brought together 110 children under 14 years from across the country. Teams came from Amani Kibera in Nairobi, ASTEP in Eldoret, SOET in Mt Elgon and the host community in Trans-nzoia County.

The children had assorted activities including life-skill sessions and health. They played 7 asi9de soccer games in a league format where each team played more than 4 games. The final league was for 11 aside where Amani Kibera Nairobi emerged triumph and carried the trophy. There was lots of fun as all children including those with disability participated in different way. Music and dance was in plenty.

One of the most memorable moments was the fact that the children who came from different ethnic communities in Kenya were hosted by families where TYSA works. This is the first time this is happening in the local community.

' I am so excited and happy that I stayed in a family who take care of me like one of their child. I will come again to visit them' Master Nyagah from Eldoret 120 girls from five organizations in Kenya that is Suba Lakers from Mbita, SEP from Oyugis, KYFA from Kisumu, Diocese of Lodwar from Turkana and TYSA.

The girls who were hosted by St. Teresa's Secondary School Sinyereri organized the training sessions and participated in the TYSA Girls We Can Soccer tournament. In the morning the girls held sessions in the school where they shared on keeping their Dreams Alive. In the afternoon, they participated in the soccer competitions which was eventually won by SEP Girls form Oyugis. The girls were so inspired during the camp. They shared freely amongst themselves. Mss Onyango Florence said from KYFA 'I would like to be a neurosurgeon so that I can help people with mental disabilities so that they can also be accepted in society where they are stigmatized' The computer classes were offered during this period and it is still ongoing for the community youth.

40 youth enrolled into the training session. They are learning basic skills to help them become more marketable in the market. The project will as form January 2012 include children under 14 years to gain the computer literacy skills at early age.

The December Holiday play brought in the senior youths aged 15 and above. 4 community teams participated in the play and learn tournament which was eventually won by Samba Boys. The youth learnt basic skills in starting business.

TYSA staff, children, youth, parents and stakeholders want to share their sincere gratitude to the donation that you made towards ensuring the celebration was a success.'On behalf of the parent committee and community council, want to thank you for your kind donation. It has made us proud in fulfilling our mandate. Your donation plus our donation ensured the children and youth get food, drink and medication during their stay here' Mr Waasare, Chairperson Community council. ' We are humbled by your kind donation and ask that you continue with this good gesture into 2012' Mss Atieno Oduor, a Girl leader and beneficiary 'We take this opportunity to wish you a successful 2012 in your endeavors. We hope you will remember and continue to make your donations to support us continue with school, computer, child protection and participation and football programs' Master Alex & Meshack, the Speaker of Youth Assembly and Junior assembly respectively

‘My two daughters Knight and Grace participate in the Holiday play events organized at TYSA. This has helped them to manage their holiday time well and they learn life skills. Before TYSA set up this holiday play event, my daughters used to be idle and often conflict was the order of the day. Today, I am very happy for them as they train in the field, study computer and attend learning session at the TYSA Girls Resource Centre’’ Mum Knight

Dear Friend,

Imagine a December holiday where child labor, drug abuse and girls pregnancy are common occurrence. Children are coming back to school in January frustrated and angry because they got into a fight or were buttered by their parents or still having hangover from drug use and some of the girls will not come back because they are pregnant.

The bottom line – December Holiday wasn't fun and nobody was in a good place to learn. Not a good situation for any child, is it? For most teachers and Parents, unhappy child after Holiday means more time and effort to get their class settled down for learning.

That's why TYSA is working with the community to provide December Holiday Play and Mentorship Activities. Junior mentorship Camp for under 14 years children including those with disability, Keeping My Dream Alive camp for vulnerable girls, and Play and learn Tournament for youth above 15 years. You can give the children the opportunity to play and Learn while receiving mentorship including computer sessions.

For the past 10 years TYSA has been partnering with rural based schools and villages in the community. We provide a full-time TYSAs' coach who uses organized games, conflict resolution tools, and our proven Plan and Learn activity to turn the playground into a virtual classroom where children learn essential life skills including teamwork, Respect, Effort, conflict resolution, and fair play.

67% of the children participating in our play and learn activities have shown great improvement in academic perform and 85% behavior change.

As you look towards the end of 2011, please consider making a $20-$100 gift to TYSA. Your gift will be put to use right away on our beneficiaries, who deserve the chance to play, learn and grow physically, emotionally and academically.

Thank you,

Gichuki Francis
Executive Director

Dear Friend,
We have recently used  $800 to help Grace to undergo a heart treatment.  Thanks to your help, she underwent successful heart valve correction.  Grace is now recovering and feeling well.   Your contribution helped Grace get access to a lifesaving procedure she would not be able to afford otherwise.  Thank you!

The next level for Grace is now to join Egerton University where she has been called to do her Bachelor Education. Grace is among other girls who are struggling to Access higher Education in Kenya. Mercy and Lilian are in Moi University while Susan is to join them early next year. 

We urgently need to raise $ 1000 to support the Grace, Mercy and Lilian continue with their University Education or else they will be delayed for another one year as we try to raise for funds.

On October 19, GlobalGiving.org is matching at 30% all online donations up to $1,000 per donor per project!  There is $100,000 available in matching funds on October 19.  Once these matching funds are used, no more matching funds will be applied.  In addition to the 30% match, GlobalGiving is offering a $1,000 bonus to the project that raises the most funds that day and a $1,000 bonus to the project that receives donations from the most individual donors!

Please donate to our project and support our girls’ access university education!  Your help is urgently needed and much appreciated!

LOVE VERSUS EDUCATION

You have a deep gut feeling about someone, a girl or a boy. But at the same time you want to work hard in your education, Mambo eh?  (Issues ee!) Many of us are trapped in this situation, we love our education but we equally love our friends that we do not want to let it go. How can we handle this? No one can go back and change a bad beginning. But with a new renewed mind anyone can start now and create a successful ending when we know our HIV/AIDs statuses then we are better placed to manage life and remember that it is hard to do two things at the same time like having sexual affairs and pursuing your education. These usually lead to poor performance in one’s academics and remember that education is the forward in our life, please focus on education first.

TALKING ABOUT SEX

When one thinks about sex all the time, it increases the chances of him or her engaging in sexual intercourse. To prevent this behavior one needs to avoid being idle and being exposed to things that can lead to temptations. At this age we need to focus on our education and work hard to improve our performance in class. Then we will find that the temptations will be a thing of past. This is because we will have no time for temptations which come by being idle.

VOLUNTARY COUNSELING AND TESTING

As young people, we face very many challenges in our lives. The dot com era presents us with challenges of drugs and substance abuse, sex and gender based violence, poverty, sexually transmitted infections, and teenage pregnancies, early and forced marriages among others. With all these challenges how should we take the lead? Knowing our status empowers us to make informed choices i.e. how to stay negative or if positive how to take care of our selves and also how to live a more fulfilling and productive life. Further, it will be important to gain the understanding of ones status to avoid the apprehension that comes with 50:50 situations knowing our status makes us the beneficiary of our health and other people’s health. This means we can make informed decision that can influence in a positive way.

ABSTAINENCE

Abstinence possible, it calls for self control, personal character setting standards in advance and goals for the future ama? Hapo ni kweli na ni poa  ( that is true and its good) and remember that sex is only good only within the bonds of a committed and faithful marriage where love can grow. Abstain from sex jamaa ( friends).

By Jecinter Naliaka-peer educator

Miss Grace Heart valve failure; She Counts on You! Donate NOW!

At the age of 12, Grace underwent a heart surgery to correct a heart valve dysfunction. The local community and friend came together to support the surgery. Grace recovered and continued with her education, and Last year, she completed her Kenya Secondary Education scoring 67 points. Her eyes are now set for university Education. Charming Grace wants to become a doctor to help more people suffering from Heart problems. This great desire by Grace to become a doctor is now in danger. She is now admitted at Kenyatta National Hospital in Nairobi after being diagnosed with heart valve failure (Rheumatic Heart Disease) one week ago. Grace has been one of the girls you have always supported to access education. His brother who has disability also benefits from the TYSA projects. The family has gone out of their ways to support Grace and her siblings and life has not been easy as they are peasant farmers. TYSA is proud of Grace and looks at her as the model girls emulate. She is determined and focused. We believe she will change the fortune of her family and the entire community. ‘I am always grateful to you. You have always supported my education through your kind donations. I need your support more than ever before now. I am appealing to you to donate any amount of money to help me undergo heart surgery. No one but you can help me.’ Grace

You can help Grace undergo a successful heart surgery, by making a donation today! The entire TYSA family, community and Grace Family is united in ensuring that she recovers from this condition. We have provided these links with her photos http://www.tysak.org/grace.htm​l, //www.worldpulse.com/puls​ewire/exchange/post/39151

Geta Secondary School emerged top in the TYSA Wasichana Tunaweza (Girls We Can) Open Soccer tournament played at the TYSA sports ground in Sinyereri over the weekend. Geta beat Kapsara 6 nil, before thrashing Bishop Muge 3 Nil. In the finals Geta beat St. Teresa Sinyereri 3 Nil. 9 secondary schools participated. Read other results attached.

Cash award for goals scored within the first and last 7 minutes of the game amounted to Ksh 3000 (US$37). This cash award is to help girl’s access educational needs including sanitary pads. The tournament attracted over 300 girls who participated in the tournament.

Besides football, Sexual Reproductive Health Clinic was organized where girls got information regarding their sexuality. The girls got first hand information from a doctor who answered their questions freely and candidly. ‘I asked questions that I could not ask my teachers in school," said a player.

 The girls also learned how to write short stories about their experiences and issues affecting them in the community. This was conducted by Marc of Globalgiving and Ziporah who is coordinating the story telling project in Kenya. TYSA uses storytelling to get feedback from the community and beneficiaries. Over 300 stories were collected. Once analyzed, they will help TYSA tailor its activities towards addressing the issues.

Another activity that was done was a baseline survey on the needs of girls in secondary school where TYSA works. This included structured questions where the girls filled in. once this information is collated, it will also inform TYSA what programs to introduce to address critical issues affecting the girls. Together with the story telling project, a comparative analysis will be done to show the most critical issues.

The tournament was attended by Marc from Globalgiving USA  who has writtenly extensivley about the visit ;http://t.co/CK4BmrH and students from Pittsburg University from the USA.

Innovation at Mothers’ Day Celebrations. It was not business as usual in the Musemwa and Makindu Village in Sinyereri Location, Trans-nzoia County in Kenya. For the first time, mothers and Teenage mothers had an opportunity to share their memories together. It was fun and pomp and they engaged in sports and round table discussions. Invited guests came and enlightened them on ' Self reliance' Ms Anastasia from Western Conservancy Area was invited to facilitate this session. She has rich experience in working with community groups mobilizing them to take advantage of the locally available resources and opportunities. She inspired the mothers to take on Income Generating Activities to support their households and stop just relying on their husbands. Mothers are already exploring and experimenting on making local ' Food Hot Basket". This basket can keep food hot for whole day. This will go along way to support mothers to generate some income as well as support children.' We are very excited by this innovation. We hope it is going to make us come out of poverty' Mary TYSA hopes this new initiative will go along way to support welfare of mothers. Your continued support is always appreciated.

When the post election violence struck in Kenya, things changed  for Ann. Her education was put in jeopardy. Her dream of completing her education was  in doubt.

Ann could not comprehend the situation at that time. The parents were separated by the ethnic tension. To date, Ann stays with her mother in a market place near TYSA offices. Through this project, Ann was recruited and given psychosial support including counselling. This helped Ann adjust her self and concentrated on her education. The project supported her to continue with her education.

Last year, Ann did her Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education. She is looking forward for some good results to enable her undertake a course. Ann also took advantage of the computer training course which was offered by TYSA in December 2010 and January 2011.

'I am very excited by the great support I have received from TYSA. I have enjoyed very warm relationship with other girls in the project. I don't know what would have happened to me if TYSA did not support me. Thank you to all those who have supported TYSA and me.' Ann. We do hope to continue to support Ann continue with her education.

This project continue to offer very vital support to the daughters of teen mother and their daughters. The project has continued to reach out to more vulnerable girls in the community. The project has become an icon of hope for more girls leaving in the rural area of Trans-nzoia County. We are now reaching out to girls in the neigbouring county of West Pokot where girls especially teen mothers need educational support.

TYSA wants to thank all of you for your continued support which has continued to impact positively on the lives of many teen mothers, vulnerable girls and children.

We want to invite you On March 16, GlobalGiving.org is matching at 30% all online donations up to $1,000 per donor per project!  There is $75,000 available in matching funds on March 16.  Once these matching funds are used, we will no longer be matching.   
In addition to the 30% match, GlobalGiving is offering a $1,000 bonus to the project that raises the most funds that day and a $1,000 bonus to the project that receives donations from the most individual donors!
 
Terms and Conditions:•    Matching is applied up to $1,000 per donor per project on March 16, 2011 between 12:01am and 11:59 pm EST (GMT-4) until matching funds run out;
•    There is $75,000 available matching funds;
•    Projects must be approved and live on the GlobalGiving.org website by March 15th;
•    Only online donations (credit card or paypal) are eligible for matching.  Donations made by check are not eligible;

TYSA is always greatful to your continued support and suggestions on how to improve our project

Ann learning computer

Adolescent girls in the rural areas rarely get an opportunity to learn about their sexuality. Lots of myths are created about sexuality which often leads to early pregnancy, marriage   and school dropout. Young girls are particularly vulnerable as they are often neglected by the families and community. Community social fabrics that used to protect girls and boys have been weakened thus exposing the girls and boys to abuse and exploitation. The young adolescent lack confidence, motivation, and self-esteem which are important ingredient in building their resilience.

The camp organized by TYSA on 9th August 2010 to 13th August 2010 at Sengwer cultural centre, on creating safe spaces for rural girls. The camp brought together 43 girls from the rural areas of Tranz-nzoia County.

The camp focused on reproductive health, relationships, and self-defense and sex bargains. The methodology of the camp was participatory in nature combining presentations, discussions, experience sharing and practical throughout the three days of facilitation.

 The girls shared how Sexual abuse and violence are serious problems that transcend racial, economic, social and regional lines. ‘Violence is frequently directed toward females youth, who lack the economic and social status to resist or avoid it. Adolescents and young women, in particular, experience abuses in the form of domestic violence, rape and sexual assault, sexual exploitation, and/or female genital mutilation’. Eunice

This unique girl’s camp, one of its own kind in the region was a perfect opportunity that these girls have ever had. For the first time some of the girls came to terms with their sexuality. ‘I have never known how female condom looks like. I have even never seen a male condom. My boyfriend says he wears it during sex but I have never seen it….’ a participant.

The camp also provided an opportunity for an excursion, which gave the girls first hand touch with Mother Nature and what humanity is doing in depletion of the forest cover of Kabolet Forest.

It was exciting, challenging and demanding. With no vehicles, the girls had to walk for 7 kilometers to and fro into the forest to the source of River nzoia. The terrains are rugged, steep and the weather was chilly. Luckily, the fresh air, and eye catching sceneries kept the girls going.

‘ I hope next year again we shall have a similar experience.’ Irene. These girls depend on your kind donation to realize their dreams in life. You have been a true friend to these girls. 

river nzoia

Girls learn self defence in case of rape

learning mensturation cycle

Adolescent girls and boys in the rural areas rarely get an opportunity to learn about their sexuality. Lots of myths are created about sexuality which often leads to early pregnancy, marriage and school dropout. Young girls are particularly vulnerable as they are often neglected by the families and community. Community social fabrics that used to protect girls and boys have been weakened thus exposing the girls and boys to abuse and exploitation. The young adolescent lack confidence, motivation, and self-esteem which are important ingredient in building their resilience. The camp organized by TYSA on 9th August 2010 to 13th August 2010 at Sengwer cultural centre, on creating safe spaces for rural girls. The camp brought together 33 girls. The camp focused on reproductive health, relationships, and self-defense and sex bargains. The methodology of the camp was participatory in nature combining presentations, discussions, experience sharing and practical throughout the three days of facilitation. Sexual abuse and violence are serious problems that transcend racial, economic, social and regional lines. Violence is frequently directed toward females youth, who lack the economic and social status to resist or avoid it. Adolescents and young women, in particular, may experience abuses in the form of domestic violence, rape and sexual assault, sexual exploitation, and/or female genital mutilation.

Key achievements of the Girls Project UN MDG Award Winning Project: The girls Project emerged top in the inaugural UN MDG award 2010 in achieving the Millennium Development Goal No. 3: promoting gender equity and women empowerment. This shows that the project has a had great impact in the lives of the girls in the community and demonstrates that the project is viable and has potential to be replicated. Community prioritizing girls; we have in the last quarter received numerous requests from organizations and institutions to share the experiences of girls empowerment. We have also received referral cases of girls who need TYSA support. The communities are more sensitive to the needs of the girls. The parents have realized the need to support their girls’ development. Girls are now reporting that their parents are now making provisions for sanitary towels and other special needs. This has increased the school attendance. Self Esteem Boosted; Girls are now taking leadership roles in the schools, community and even in the social groups. Some have been elected as chairpersons of their church groups, girl guides, and school prefects and games captains. Self Reliance; for those girls who could not go back to school, have initiated small income generating projects. Elizabeth Wambi is running a small successful horticulture business along river nzoia. Sarah is running a tailoring and dress making business at the community level. As teenage mothers, this is helping them cater for their children needs. TYSA visibility increases; in the last quarter, TYSA has been called upon to share it success stories in empowering girls. We have visited Moving the Goal Post-Kilifi, Society Empowerment Program-Oyugis, and Diocese of lodwar. During the celebrations of the AWARD, various CSOs and Private sector contributed in making the day a success. They gave in resources to help in logistics. The media coverage on K24 and The daily People has increased our visibility in the country. The TYSA value based sports approach has become a powerful tool for social change. The demand for it is growing day by day Girls Camp Held Sexual abuse and violence are serious problems that transcend racial, economic, social and regional lines. Violence is frequently directed toward females youth, who lack the economic and social status to resist or avoid it. Adolescents and young women, in particular, may experience abuses in the form of domestic violence, rape and sexual assault, sexual exploitation, and/or female genital mutilation. The camp aimed to build the capacity of girls aged 15 to 24 to make informed decisions regarding their sexuality and use defensive techniques/skills in cases of attempts of sexual abuse. 60 girls participated in this camp. We want to thank all of you who have

Girls in a workshop

A girl enjoys nature at the excursion in cherangan

girls adventure at nzoia river

UN MDG AWARD

TYSA WINS MILLENIUM DEVELOPMENT GOALS AWARD IN KENYA TYSA emerged top on Inaugural Millennium Development Goal No. 3: Promoting gender equality and empowering women. The MDGs Trust Fund Kenya was the main organizer of this event which was held on 10th September 2010 at the National Museum of Kenya. Other partners include; UNDP Kenya country office, UN Millennium Campaign, Synovate and Microsoft among others The award seeks to recognize and celebrate Kenyan institutions that are making impactful differences in the society with regards to MDGs. The spotlight was on organizations that have demonstrated outstanding and innovating efforts towards the delivery o the eight MDG goals through their core porgrammes. The award also aims to recognize significant efforts made by various institutions to advance social change through their innovations and in their different capacities to achieve the MDGs. TYSA’s ‘Wasichana Tunaweza ‘- Girls We Can Project was outstanding in the delivery the MDG; promoting gender equality and empowering women. This project seeks to eliminate gender disparity through increased accesses to educational and retention and capacity building opportunities for girls. The ‘wasichana Tunaweza’ project is well summarized by the following comments Marc from Globalgiving USA when he visited the project. "It struck me that this is about much more than soccer, or sports. This is about building up strong willed women who can lead the nation. It's about reaching for that future together, as a team. It's kind of hard for me to explain what I am seeing, because there isn't anything like it in the USA that is similar. At least not so explicitly. This is not a mere sport. Belonging to this team is about developing character and building your future. We discipline the body so that we can discipline the mind, through school. And education gives you opportunities, a future." TYSA wants to express gratitude to all the organizations and individuals who have support the girl’s project. We are humbled by your continued support which has made our work visible in Kenya. Find attached the award winning project and some photos

Jubilations as girls received award

• Award Winning Project (DOC)

Mercy Next Level Mercy Ipara traces her quest for Higher Education in 2008. It was here when she first interacted with TYSA. She has never looked back since then. Today, her smiles tell it all! University is her next step.

Mercy, a first born daughter of a teen mother, has gone through good and bad times. ‘It has not been bed of roses. Times were hard and frustrating. I was more often alone and had many thoughts crossing my mind’ Mercy

‘In 2007, after completing my O level secondary examinations, I was just confined at home and did know what was happening out there. One day, I went to the TYSA sports ground to know what goes on there. I met some many girls and boys having fun playing football and others playing with kids.’ Mercy It was at this encounter with TYSA that mercy remembers with vividly to date. ‘I thought for a while. Why are all these girls and boys here! There is something good in this organization’ said Mercy. Since then Mercy has never looked back. She joined other girls with similar background, some even who had babies and were back to school. ‘Iam encouraged here. Even a teen mother has gone back to school to study! That is great! Exclaims Mercy

In 2008, Mercys’ desire to go for higher education grew day by day. With her O level grades, she could not access university education in Kenya. She consulted with TYSA Director on what she could do. Through TYSA network in East Africa, a high school was now available for her in Uganda. She enrolled in Mashariki High School in the out skirts of Kampala. It is here that she worked hard and got 2 principals and 3 pass of 13 points end of last year. We want to join Mercy in celebrating her achievements so far. Her focus is awesome! We want to wish her all the best as she now focuses on her university education.

All these could not be possible without our dear friends through Globalgiving who have tirelessly denied themselves and given some funds to ensure Mercy and other girls get access to education. Part yourselves at the back for this great achievement. Your funds have not gone to waste.

Mercy joins a growing number of TYSA beneficiaries who are now accessing university education. Lilian and Simon are already in the university under taking their undergraduate degrees in education and computer science respectively. Simon is in Jomo Kenyatta University and Lillian is in Moi University.

Next week, TYSA and the local community has organized a thanks giving party to celebrate Mercy, Lilian and Simon achievements so far. Join us.

Your continued support to this project will ensure girls like Mercy get to the highest level of education

Mercy Results slip showing her performance

Matching Day - June 16

On June 16, GlobalGiving is matching at 50% all online donations up to $1,000 per donor per project!

This is great chance to increase our project impact. With some little extra resources; more school fees, feeding and clothing children and start income generating projects.

Mark this day and help us reach out to your friends and family members. This day also coincides with the International Day of the African Child. TYSA has organized a big celebration to remember children who were killed in South Africa and across Africa and those in our community who continue to suffer.

In addition to the 50% match, GlobalGiving is offering a $1,000 bonus to the project that raises the most funds that day and a $1,000 bonus to the project that receives donations from the most individual donors!

With warm regards

Children enjoy safe space at tysa

Every weekend, over 10 teen mothers' children come with their parents to the sports or training programme. This was not possible a few years ago before this project started. ' I used to fear and feel shy carrying my baby to the sports or meetings. The boys used to tease me and say that I am a parent. Nowdays I dont fear anything' Dorothy, a teen mother.

Children enjoy playing together at the field as their mothers participate in various activities at the TYSA girls resource centre or playing football.

As an organization, we are happy that the community has also appreciated the project which is helping the teen mothers go back to school and gain education. 'This project has helped my daughter complete secondary education and is now joining college. I stayed with her son for two years' Mum Nancy, (a beneficiary)

We do appreciate your continued donations which help to feed children of teen mothers, offer medical care and pay school fees for the teen mothers. Donate now to support the education of teen mothers as they open school on 3rd May 2010

Dorothy ( infront) playing at TYSA field

School appreciate TYSA efforts in educating Girls

Four years ago, there was no secondary school to serve girls and boys from poor family around the neighbourhood of TYSA.

It is amazing how little efforts put together over sometime produces excellent results.

St Teresa Mixed secondary school is one such school in the neighbourhood of TYSA. It is here where over 70 vulnerable girls and boys you sponsor gain their secondary school education.

‘ I never knew one day I will come back to school and be in such a beautiful environment. When I am here in school, I feel very safe and comfortable’ Elizabeth, a student beneficiary

Last Week , Mr. Marc from Globalgiving was here and had a chance to visit the school. He acknowledged TYSA efforts.

‘TYSA has changed this school. Girls who were lost and loitering in the villages are here now school. We appreciate efforts by TYSA to engage the girls and boys in educational pursuit’ Principal, St. Teresa Secondary School.

Your continued support and donations will ensure more girls continued and complete their education

With Warm Regards from St. Teresa Mixed Secondary School Community

Gichuki Francis

St.Teresa secondary school

Whisked from an Exam Room by Dad to be Married

In 1998, Sadia Wario, now aged 25 did her Kenya Certificate of Primary School and got a total of 358 points out of 700. Sadia comes from Marsabit district Eastern Province, a semi arid area

Sadia was admitted at Siakago Girls, a Provincial school in Eastern Province. This is where her miseries started.

Her parents refused to take her to this great school which has produced some of great leaders in Kenya. Reason: ‘If my daughter crosses Isiolo border, she will become a prostitute. I am not ready to take her to that school’ Father Sadia

With her great points, her parents took her to a local school that didn’t have any infrastructure the rural area. No laboratory, No dormitory. Classrooms were used as dormitories at Night.

After four years (2002) of studying in a hardship environment, Sadia managed to secure a D+ grade in the Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education. This is too far below her full potential.

Out of a family of 8, (3 girls & 5 boys) Sadia is the 3rd Born. Only two have accessed secondary school i.e. Sadia and her younger brother. Two boys have so far not proceeded to secondary school. Two girls decided to get married after completing class 8.

‘After completing form four, I worked in a construction firm and managed to save Ksh 12,000. I went to my father and told him, I had secured a college to train as a Pharmacist. He took the cash I had and promised to assist. After three months in college in Nairobi, my dad told me that he was no longer capable of supporting me. He came to the classroom when it was on and whisked me away while I was doing my exams. I was put into a vehicle to Marsabit, a 48 hour drive from Nairobi. However it took me 7 days to get to marsabit as the car broke down. All these time, I didn’t have any money with me. I had to rely on good will of other passengers’ Ms Sadia

Back in Marsabit 2003, the parents of Sadia were not friendly which forced her to move to a neighbour for 6 months to seek refugee. I remember with nostalgia, when my father said to me. ‘I have educated you so far, I don’t want to see you in my home. Go and get married. I need Cows Now’ Father Sadia.

Following the above incident, Ms Sadia went to Moyale (a 48 hours drive) to stay with her Aunty for two years. While there, Sadia attend a workshop on HIV/AIDS. The little allowance she got from the workshop enabled her to travel to Nairobi where she undertook a basic computer course.

Ms Sadia heard about TYSA work and she was quite impressed with the TYSA girls’ project which is supporting girls to realise their dreams. She travelled to Nairobi, the project has been helping her to stay safe from danger of early marriage. She is staying with her Cousin together with her other two girls whom they run away with from Marsabit. Sadia and her friends depend on your donations for meals, rent and transport. ‘My wish is to go back to college and continued with my studies. I want one day to go back to Marsabit and support thousands of girls whose future has been curtailed by early marriages’ Ms Sadia

With your donations, Ms Sadia will be able to realize her dream. Make your donation today!

SPECIAL TUESDAY 16TH MARCH 2010! 16th March 2010, GlobalGiving will be matching all donations made to our project on www.globalgiving.org by 30% (up to $1,000 per person)! This is a great opportunity to double our donations. Make Tuesday 16th March 2010 memorable day! Make a Special donation! Share this good news with your friends, workmates, and family members and encourage them to make a special donation on this date With warm Regards Gichuki Francis

43 Students Receive Scholarship Awards

TYSA makes a historical milestone in the community where it works. For the first time, 43 girls, teen mothers and Boys of Teen mothers got educational scholarships.

It was jubilation and happy moments as the scholarships were awarded. ‘ I am excited after working hard for 8 years in primary school, that now am able to join secondary school’ Mss Felister, a beneficiary.

For the last two months, January –February 2010, a total of US$ 1848 has been so far spend paying school fees in various schools (see attached for details)

‘I want to thank TYSA and sponsors for helping me pay school fees for my two children. Without TYSA, my children would not have gone to secondary school despite them passing well. God bless the work of TYSA and all those who sponsor our children to school’ Mum Nancy, Parent

Your continued support to this project will ensure the students remain in school for the next four years We require US$ 1500 to clear the school fees balance for this year. Make your donation today! We look forward to your feedback on this project which you have dearly supported.

With Warm regards from all of us here at TYSA

Gichuki Francis

Scholarship Awards to students

• List of Beneficiaries of Scholarships Awards (XLS)

Nutritious Porridge for Teen children The teen mother’s children feeding are helping to improve health of children. Porridge with added food supplements is a great boost to children. We intend to make this available to children twice a week. Current it is done once a week. ‘My child health is improving tremendously. My son is happy and healthy’ Mum Kassiba.

Your continued support has made great impact in the lives of children and their teen mothers.

We shall for ever remain grateful to you Make another donation today

Warm Regards Gichuki Francis

Against all Odds, Nancy makes it back to school after 2 years and does her examination

Nancy Moraa is now 21 years and has just completed her secondary school examinations 2009.

Her story of intrigues started in 2004 at a tender age of 16. Nancy had scored the highest marks in her school with 374 points out of maximum 500.

At form 1, aged 16, she dropped out of school and got married to a young man. The young man eloped with her to town to hide from parents. She got a baby boy now aged 3. After only a short period of marriage, life became difficulty. The husband abandoned her. ``At one point, I went to look for a job to take care of my kid’’ Nancy. My aunty told me that I could not get a job without a certificate and an Identity Card. There are no jobs for un- educated persons’, she exclaimed. ‘You can only become a house wife or house help’ she continued.

This made me to think and reflect about my life. The man whom I thought would save me now was mistreating me. I had to make a decision.

After two years in 2005, she called her brother who is a member of TYSA and explained her problems which she was experiencing. This included hunger, no dialogue in the house and general neglect by the husband. She came back home where she participated in various sporting activities. This helped her to overcome fears and integrated back to the youth. While at these sports programs organized by TYSA, she got the courage and interest to go back to school. ‘I want to go back to school and continue with my education, I have learnt a bitter lesson’ Nancy In 2006, Nancy enrolled back to school in Form 2. This year, she did her Form 4 exams and she looks forward to good results to enable her realize her dream of becoming a Nurse. At school Nancy played for the school handball and football team Nancy says; Sports play a good role in discovering talents, for health, leisure and promote active life. Specifically for girls, it motivates them to be active and limit idle mind as it is the devil workshop. It creates fun for girls. You meet friends and removes daily stress. You learn new techniques, socializing and get life skills

This dream could not be possible without your donations which you make regularly. Nancy wants to be an accountant or a nurse

We look forward to your continued support in 2010 to help Nancy and more girls in same state

With Warm Regards from Nancy and TYSA

• Against_all_OddsNancy_makes_it_back_to_school_after_2_years__in_marriage.doc (DOC)

Smile of appreciation Monica (Right) and Jacinta, say it all through their smiles. One year ago, these children futures were not assured. They slept hungry, no medication when they felt sick. Food was snot assured and clothing. School was not assured too. Today, the story is different! Smiles all the way!!! Your donations for the last one year have brought smiles and joy to these and other children of Teen mothers. Monica has completed he nursery school and joins class one next year while Jacinta will join nursery school next year. We want to thank you for your kind donations. Next year, we know that you will continue to support Monica and Jacinta to continue with education and off course their smiles

With warm Regards Gichuki Francis

Monica and Jacinta reading

Susan looks at TYSA as Family

Susan is 16 year old. She is a form one student at Wiyeta Girls secondary school.

Susan’s family is separated and she lives with her mother in a single roomed house in the village, not too far away from the TYSA offices. Her father is alcoholic and is visible in the community drunk and disorderly. Her mother works as a casual labourer in the maize farms and little business to keep her large family of 6. She is the first born.

Susan finds consolation and comfort at the TYSA resource centre and the football ground where she spent most of her time. ‘I feel so frustrated sometimes when I see my father drunk and loitering in the community. It feels very bad. My mum works hard to try to feed us. I felt very bad one day when my mum told me to go to my dad to get little pocket money, when I went to see him, he chased me away in day broad right in presence of my friends’ TYSA endeavours to offer Susan and other girls in similar situation a good environment for personal growth. Without TYSA support, Susan and other girls in similar situation will not be able to access education

Your continued donations have ensured Susan and others who goes to secondary school. I would not have gone to secondary school, if TYSA did not pay my school fees. I remember that day when the Executive Director, bought everything for me and paid school fees. I will never forget TYSA and all those who support my education’ Susan.

With warm regards from Susan and TYSA Gichuki Francis

Susan Home

250 children, girls, youth and elders directly participated in the discussions on this harmonized draft constitution. They shared with passion what they hope this constitution should contain. Children were particular about protection, medication and education.

The girls want a constitution that looks at their unique needs especially reproductive health, entitlement to inheritance and access to equal opportunities.

The youth being majority in the population feels sidelined as the harmonized draft constitution only has two paragraphs which define them. They want a more presence in the constitution which also gives them at least 5% of all elective and appointive bodies.

The elders and community members were very clear about agriculture. Kenya depends on agriculture for its economy and it’s unfortunate that nothing significant is mentioned in the constitution about it. They want agriculture enshrined in the constitution. Security ranked second and they want every Kenyan security protected by the constitution.

TYSA wants Sports enshrined in the constitution. We are known worldwide as a sporting nation. It is up surd if we do not back this by an inclusion into the constitution We thank all those who contributed to this project. Globalgiving sponsors and KCDF for donating the Harmonized Draft Constitution of Kenya Copies

• Girls_Feed_Back_on_HDCK.doc (DOC)

Determination Pays off for Elizabeth

Mss Elizabeth Wangechi is an I6 old girl in Secondary school, Form one. She looks into future with Hope and determination. All these because you donated some money that enabled her join school. Her determination is evident. She beat all boys in her class to emerge top with 333 points out of 500. Ms Elizabeth is aware of the enormous task ahead of her in the next three years to finish secondary education. She is a clear example of what determination can do. Her smile tells it all. With your support, Elizabeth has a great future. In her form one exams she performed well.

With warm Regards from Elizabeth Gichuki Francis

Cow project brings joy Ms Wamuyu, a teen mother has every reason to smile after his cow calved two weeks ago. ‘I am very delighted and happy that I have more milk and one more cow. Thanks so much for your donations.’ Ms Wamuyu. ‘So happy for our new calve and we get more milk’ Ms Wangui,a daughter of Ms Wamuyu With your continued support, we can purchase more cows for the teen mothers who are on our waiting list.

With Warm Regards from TYSA Gichuki Francis

Ms wamuyu milking her cow and background is the calf

Our Next Step 12 girls have through your donations done their Kenya Certificate of Primary Education 2009. During a meeting yesterday at the TYSA Girls Resource Centre, they were optimistic that they will do well and join Secondary school 2010. ‘Iam eager to join secondary school next year’ Elizabeth who sat for her exams at Mukuyu Primary school. The girls were very grateful to your donations through Globalgiving which has assisted them so much in buying books, uniforms, and paying for their examination fees. ‘If it were not for the support I have received, I would not have even done this examinations, as my mum has no income to support me’ Felecita, who did her exams from Sinyereri primary school. TYSA expects through your continued support to offer these girls secondary education. We are looking forward to your donations especially during this period when Globalgiving is matching your donations. With Warm Regards from Elizabeths, Felicita, Joyce, Florence on behalf of other girls Gichuki Francis

Dear Friend Give More - Get More Challenge Thank you for your continued support to TYSA.We wanted to let you know about an exciting opportunity that we are participating in through our partners, GlobalGiving. When a donation is made to our project; Educate 150 Teenage Mothers www.globalgiving.com/2161, on GlobalGiving between November 10 and December 1, GlobalGiving will match that donation at 30%, 40% or 50%. And if we raise the most money or get the most donations, we are eligible for bonus awards up to $10,000. Matching funds are limited, so act quickly. You can help us raise more money and earn the GlobalGiving prize money by spreading the word! 1) Pass along this email to your friends and families and ask them to tell others. 2) If you are planning to make a donation this year to TYSA please do so by going to our project on GlobalGiving www.globalgiving.com/2161 Again our sincere thanks for your support and all you have done for TYSA Thank you, Gichuki Francis P.S. Pass this email along to friends and family!

Girls going places

Knight Atieno a teen mother is going places. After joining the project one year ago, Knight has seen opportunities opening up for her. Last August she was in Uganda attending an international Youth camp. This week she is in Nairobi attending a Premier skills soccer coaching organized by the British council. ‘Am so grateful to TYSA and globalgiving for opening up opportunities for me. Initially I was hastened to join the project because of stigma associated with giving birth as a teenage. Today am confident and my future is looking bright’ Knight Atieno, a beneficiary. We look forward to your continued support to help many more girls

With Warm Regards from Knight Atieno and TYSA

Your Inspirational Donation

Margaret is a 15 year old girl from a single mother. Her mother is HIV positive. Aware of her mothers’ situation, Margaret was so depressed and disturbed. We counselled her throughout last year as she was candidate. When Margaret sat for her Primary school national examinations 2008 she scored 335 points out of maximum points of 500.This was a great performance! Through your kind donations she was admitted in St. Marks Girls Secondary School one of the best schools in the province. Margaret annual school fees and upkeep is US$ 450 For the next four years, Margaret depends on well wishers donations to complete her education. Margaret is a promising girl and we look forward to her excellent performance and bright future. Your donations are offering great inspiration and give hope to girls who had lost hope in life. ‘I have no words to express my joy and appreciation to you who has made it possible for me to be in school. You have made me proud and given me hope in life. I look forward to your continued support to help me finish school. All my love to you’ Margaret

With Warm Regards from Margaret and TYSA

Have a goal in Life

Kenyatta University Female Students in Science and Technology (KUFEST) on the 19th September 2009 came down to our village to give girls some tips for life. Mss Amo Rebecca, the chairperson of KUFEST and a third year student at Kenyatta University shared with the TYSA Girls health Club members and the St.Teresa Secondary school sinyereri girls. 55 girls participated. Among the key issues discussed include: Basics of Reading Behaviours; which relates to always reading a head of the teacher, revise after a lesson, form discussion group, read different books, have a goal in life, good time management, choose your friends wisely, ask questions in class, be active in class Relationships; girls should know what they want in relationships, think about education first, avoid unprotected sex, Reproductive Health; medical checks are important, use clean sanitary towels to avoid infections, get involved in sports, ‘ I am grateful to TYSA by brining the guest today. We girls here have not sent anyone to the university for the last 15 years. Iam so inspired now and lookfoward to reading hard and going to the university in the next two years’ Mary ,Laboratory Prefect St Teresa Girls With your continued donations, the girls will be making a visit to Kenyatta University next year for a study tour to inspire them. With Warm Regards Gichuki Francis

In my last update I forgot to attach the launch of the girls health club document. Please find it here.

Warm Regards from TYSA

• Girls_Launch_Health_Club.doc (DOC)

It is amazing to see the girls take initiative to launch girls health club.

After almost one year of support from sponsors like you through global giving, 43 girls, came together last week and launched a health club.

'We have seen the need to come together and develop our skills, knowledge and reduce cases of early pregancies among our members' Mss Pascilia Osere, the chairperson o fthe club.

Read attachment for details.

We lookforward to your continued suppprt to help more girls as the project is growing.

Warm Regards Gichuki Francis

Some members of the girls health club

This project is one of it on own kind in Trans-nzoia District. Educational issues have never been simplified and brought to the door step of every home. For the first time, Makindu and Busemwa villages came together to reward their children in educational achievements. In a unique experience, the pupils from Nursery to Class 8 were awarded various prizes to acknowledge their performances.

Pupils who were between position 1 and 10 in their classes were awarded with various prizes which included, revision exercise book, revision text books, story books, school bags, lantern lamps.

The teachers from the two villages were present to give this unique project the support. Mr Otindo, the Headteacher of Surungai Primary school was the guest of honor. He challenged the community to prioritize education of their children. He regretted that some parents discouraged their children from studying saying their were no jobs for them after all.

Over 200 parents and over 400 pupils participated in the project which while over 70 pupils received awards. Out o fthe 70 awards, 40 went to Girls

This project was funded by globalgiving sponsors and other community stakeholders.

• Village_Education_Day_Report_Motivating_Students_for_Excellence.doc (DOC)

Progress in Education Three girls who are beneficiaries of the project shared their feedback during the school holiday; Mercyline Ipara a sudent in Uganda is dtermined to perform wel in her A leve eams at the end of the year. ‘ I want to get minimum of 14 points so that I can go to the university. Iam working hard’

Susan Ogola is a form one student at Wiyeta girls secondary school. ‘ Iam happy to have joined this school where I study and play my soccer. I want to thank all those who are contributing through globalgiving to pay my school’

Triza Nyongesa is a form two students at Sitatunga secondary school. ‘I just want to thanksglobalgiving through TYSA for supporying my education. I was droping out of school due to school fees.Iam even happy because TYSA took me to Uganda for a youth conference’

Magdalene Njeri is a student at Kapenguria Youth Polytechnic. ‘Next term Iam now going for driving course. Iam very excited for this. This is going to help me when I finish my mechanic course next year’

We want to appreciate the continued support we receive from you. The final school term for 2009 starts on 07/09/2009. Your donation will help us pay school fees for our needy girls.

TYSA Girls Shine in Uganda

Uganda Girls Soccer National Team were so impressed with TYSA players duirng a friendly match played in 12th August 2009 at Masindi stadium marking the International Youth Day.

TYSA girls have been invited to Uganda in November 9th 2009 to play during the Uganda Independence day. This is great boost to the girls who have come from far. ‘ I really enjoyed playing against the Uganda national team’ Night Atieno

Globalgiving sponsors have really made impact on the lives of this girls who were not exposed.

We want to thanks all those who continue to contribute toward this project. To participate in this Uganda invitation tournament, we need US$ 1000. Help us to take this girls to this tournament. Share this message widely with your friends.

‘We lookfoward to your support to enable us travellto uganda toplay the Uganda national team’ Mss Pambo.Team Captain

My Story from the International Youth Camp in Masindi August 2009

4 participants from TYSA attended the above youth camp and here are their stories

Pascilia Osere (Pambo) According to me, am very proud because this camp has helped me to advance my career as a footballer and as a leader. I played against Uganda National Soccer Team. I now understand much more about youth issues in the community. I am also happy as we visited many places in Uganda and the most exciting one was the Murchison falls. I have learnt about other people cultures, dances and believe from different countries like Tanzania, Denmark, Sudan and Uganda. In conclusion, the youth camp was very good; facilitators were great and I learnt so much. I will never forget this day in my life. I give thanks to my organization TYSA for giving me a chance to attend this camp.

Trizer Nyongesa I have learnt a lot from this East Africa youth camp in Masindi. The visit to Murchison fall was great experience. Cultural songs, dances from different communities in East Africa were excellent. Making the youth count discussion was lively as It opened space for the youth to express themselves as leaders of today not just waiting for tomorrow. Socializing with many people was good and learning new games like gymnastics. A lot of thanks to TYSA for allowing me to participate in this youth camp

Mercyline Ipara I enjoyed visiting the Uganda gift of nature. We went to Murchison falls of which I didn’t expect that such a thing could even happen. TYSA gave me this chance to come and wish many more youths could get such an opportunity. I shared my experience and developed my self esteem. I now understand how young people are supposed to be enhanced in their leadership skills and good governance. I learnt how to encourage the youth to become aware of the importance of democracy and human rights in the society. I learnt about youth and job creation and wealth creation where I learnt that wealth is the ability of an individual to survive for so many days ahead. I just enjoyed the place and activities. It was wow!!!

Atieno Oduor It was my first time to come to Uganda. The camp was so nice to me. I didn’t expect to see such things as the Murchison fall. I saw big town like Kampala. Another that I want to put across is about the tour which was educational. I learnt a lot about becoming a leader and job creation

Dear Friends, We want to share with you the great inspiration that your support is giving to the rural girls. Today, 3 girls are in Uganda attanding the International youthcamp which brings together young people from East Africa and Europe.

The girls will be part of the soccer team that will play the Uganda National Girls soccer team.

This is very unique experience for the girsl.It is their first time ever out off the village. EWe do appreciate your continued support.

Please donate and help us raise 2000 Sterling Pounds in the on going alive and learning competition.

Gichuki Francis

Dear Friends Thank you for your continued support and interest in Trans-nzoia Youth Sports Association (TYSA) We wanted to let you know that TYSA is participating in GlobalGiving.co.uk’s Alive and Learning challenge, a fundraising opportunity for health and education projects helping communities worldwide. Projects that raise £2000 or more will receive prominent marketing on GlobalGiving.co.uk, the internationally recognised marketplace for philanthropy that connects individual donors to the causes they care most about, and promote our project to GlobalGiving UK’s national partners as well as be in the running for one of the top bonus cash prizes, which would help TYSA achieve so much more. Every donation helps, and no donation is too small. You can show your support for TYSA for as little as £5 and make a big impact to our project. If you’re ready to donate now, please visit our project page on GlobalGiving.co.uk: www.globalgiving.co.uk/2161 TYSA is very excited about this opportunity to highlight our work for education/health in Kenya and raise fund and awareness for Educate 150 Orphaned Teen Mothers. Help us achieve our goal of £2000 by August 14th 2009 by making a donation to TYSA on GlobalGiving.co.uk/2161. Please share this email and our project link with your friends and family and ask them to help us too. Thank you for your support, Gichuki Francis

Behind Dorothy’s Smile

Dorothy Auma is a 14 years old girl, Joyful and always smiling. It is until you hear her story that one begins to shade tears and taker her story at personal level. She is a total orphan and a caretaker of her younger brothers and sisters (4).

Dorothy was diagnosed with a heart threatening ailment a month ago. She urgently requires USD $ 3500 for a heart surgery to save her life. Join other well-wishers in donating towards her surgery expense. Tell 5 other friends to donate as little as 10 USD$ and in a short while we shall all achieve our target.

Her uncle Mr. Benson the only other relative is a squatter and a milkman who is also taking care of 6 other children of his brother. Benson is overstretched and lives on less than a dollar a day

Dorothy who is in Class 5 at Cheparus primary school in Kaplamai Division, Trans-nzoia East District is supported TYSA in her educational needs. I want to be a doctor so that I can heal many people who are dying of diseases. Dorothy

We are very disturbed by her condition. When she is feeling well, Dorothy will struggle to come to school. She walks for two kilometers to school. Her love for education is inspirational. In Dorothy we see a great person with passion to serve her family and community. Head Teacher, Cheparus Primary School

Donate Now to Save Dorothy Life

Reclaimed Dream

Sheila is a 16 year old, shy with a baby face girl. She lives with her single mother in the sprawling slum of Huruma, 100 Kilometers away from TYSA office.

At 15, years, Sheila wa already a mother of a beautiful baby girl. Her dream to be a Doctor was being shuttered. Sheila was equally disturbed. This was her first attempt to Sexual Relationship with a Driver. Her mother was furious and often contemplated of chasing her out of the home.

Jackline a TYSA Board Member and a nurse by profession runs a clinic at Huruma slums.She meet mum to sheila and shared her stressful situation. Jackline then shared with her what TYSA does to support such girls.

To date, Sheila is in Secondary School and in the next four years, she will have the time to have her dream of being a doctor on course.

‘Your support has made me reclaim my dream.I would now probably be a frustrated girl engaged in anti-social behavior and would have even contracted diseases like HIV/AIDs’ Sheila

We look upon you to continue supporting education of the many Sheila’s in the community

Donate now for sheila to go back to school for the third term in August.

Warm Regards

Gichuki Francis

Leah Ambwaya visited this project as part of a GlobalGiving evaluation. She met some of the people affected by Trans-nzoia Youth Sports Association. Here are their stories:

Metrine Chelgat. When we met Metrine a 20 year old girl she is jovial and full of life standing out like a girl who comes from a well off family, but this is not the case when you listen to her, “When I did my primary education I knew that was the end of my life” she poses and looks down shyly “But why?” I ask, she looks up confidently and continues “ I come from a very poor family and nobody goes beyond primary, and my life was complicated further when I got pregnant” this come as a surprise as she doesn’t stand out as a mother, Metrine goes on to narrate on how poverty and lack of basic needs led her into early motherhood but she later beams with a smile and says “Thanks to Tysa because due to counsel and support I am a dependable footballer striker in position 9, after my talent was realized I am now in Kapenguria polytechnic undertaking a two year Tailoring course”.

Lameck Nyadenga Lameck is 26 years old, when we sat down with him in the Tysa resource centre he stood up as one of the youths milling around the sports ground, anxiously waiting for the whistle blow so as to start playing there favorites sport which is soccer, after we introduce ourselves and mission of the visit we ask the gentleman to introduce himself. My partner and I look at each other in amazement when Lameck introduces himself and goes further to say “I am a farmer from the nearby villages but volunteer my services here at TYSA as a sports facilitator” we are surprised because the rains have just come and everybody is busy working on their farms either planting or weeding since the grounds are soft. To answer our question Lameck takes us through his experience during the post election violence and how TYSA really helped in the healing process and him being a victim of this violence the least he could do to appreciate the efforts by Tysa was to offer his services, he quips “I feel great when I sacrifice an hour or two just to volunteer my services, to an organization that’s helping in the peace building initiative after the post election violence” Lameck explains to us if the youth are not engaged in such initiatives on how to live in harmony they are the same people who will turn against each other, butchering each other like chicken in 20212. They are the key to peace in the community. “I need to go clear with the boys before going back to my farm” we thank him for his time, at the point he runs back to the field where girls and boys are involved in different activities.

Mercyline Ipara. From her dressing,Mercyline is a modern girl, after we introduce ourselves and request to know her, the young girls goes on without posing on how she used to be a very shy girl after her final year of Kenya secondary certificate of education ,we interrupt her “What happened?” with a lot of pride she continues “I joined Tysa and after counseling and empowerment I realized as a young growing woman I need to actively find my place in the society, and that’s when I joined the soccer team” she goes on tell us about her prowess in the field before adding “ I am now a form 6 student in Mashariki high school Kampala Uganda, Infarct I am a professional y unstoppable no. 7 player” she prides “After my high school I will be a lawyer putting behind bars anybody who treads on children and women rights ,If not I will be a journalist to highlight on this issues”. We wish her all the best in her Endeavour’s believing she will definitely achieve her goals and beyond.

Collins Samuel Collins Samuel is an 11 year old boy behind a wheelchair beaming with smiles, pushing the weel chair is his mother Elizabeth Ng’aleche.The mother goes on to narrate how Sammy was born prematurely at 7 months and placed in an incubator. She tells us how they thought the boy was a curse forcing them to hide him as an outcast until God brought Gichuki who has helped her and other parent who have children with special needs to appreciate the facts this children are just like any other. “As you can see, now Samuel has a wheel chair and Tysa has found him a school in Kisumu and he is joining very soon.” “You see that man”, she quips referring to a Mr. Francis Gichuki the Director and founder of TYSA, he has spend so much time with me and my family, encouraging us to give Collins a chance, he took us to Joy land school in Kisumu to have Collins assed by experts, we always pray for him”.

Samson Taboso Samson is another 11 year old boy with special needs, quite special because his is mentally challenged. The father, Michael Kitio is says Samson is his 3rd born “We first noticed Sam had a problem when he clocked 4 years without walking” as he narrates Samson is sharing a bottle of water with my collogue Leah, who doesn’t seem bothered with his state. The father goes on on tell us how he dug a whole neck high the height of sam and would burry him inside everyday for 2 hours for a period of 4 months until he started walking. At this particular moment Samson is comfortably patching on Leah’s laps and in deep conversation, this is quite hilarious since from when we got here is it’s the only time I have seen the boy settle and sit down, “Its motherly communication” I tell myself. The father is very grateful “Thanks to Tysa,after some therapy he can now feed himself, he is able to play and do some activities like move things from one point to another” .Tysa has managed to secure and sponsor Samson to a special School in Eldoret town about 100 miles from the village. I am forever grateful to TYSA, they have taken a big burden off my shoulders, my son can now walk and he is attending school.” We learn that the Director of the project has a very special interest in this children with special needs, he does school visitations all the time, Samson love Gichuki.

Leah also spoke to many of the beneficiaries. Here's what they had to say:

Pascilia Osere:

"TYSA has enabled me complete school after being out for one year. I have attended various training workshops which have built y capacity in leadership, community mobilization and event management.

TYSA offers excellent opportunity and space for build our future. You can buy a car (Prado) through this leg, by playing football. Through sports, we come together here in the field and this reduces our involvement in social ill activities

Francis Ojilo:

"TYSA sponsored my secondary education. Through TYSA, I have trained as a soccer coach and currently am in charge of sports and recreation in the organization. I stand in for the Director when he is out of the office. I enjoy every moment in the organization as I get mentored into leadership.

Mary Juma (community parents’ representative):

"TYSA has offered support to the many girls and boys in this community to access education, training and exposure. As a community we are happy with the work of this organization and we shall continue to support it.

My own daughter refused to participate in the TYSA activities and now she is married; I was telling my daughter to come to this field and play with other girls but she refused, only to learn later that she was planning to get married. I am so disturbed."

Joseph Marube (Community parents’ Representative):

"TYSA has shaped the minds of the youths as today they are involved in sports and do not have time to participate in ad behaviors. As parents we are aware of the children movement. If I want to know where my child is, I just come to the field here and I find him."

Lameck Nyandega:

"I was affected by the 2008 post election violence and lived in the Noigam IDP camp till it as closed. It is here where TYSA found me. I volunteered to work with the organization in running daily sports and games activities. Since then I have remained with the organization. TYSA has trained me in coaching and have attended training workshops.

Through TYSA, many girls who were in the IDP camps were sponsored to secondary schools. Counseling of those traumatized during the violence has assisted many to return to normal life."

Mercyline Ipara:

"I am a student in Mashariki High School in Kampala Uganda. TYSA played an important role in supporting me. Initially I never knew what to do. I was so enclosed in our home. One time, I walked out and came to the field. I found so many girls playing different sports. Slowly I was attracted and joined the group.

While at the sports ground, I discovered myself more and TYSA opened up more opportunity for me including access higher education. I was very shy and unable to talk in public unlike today when I am very confident."

Leah Ambwaya visited this project as part of a GlobalGiving evaluation. She said:

If I have ever seen a community mobilizer, then it is this man called Gichuki. We give him a call on a cold and wet Saturday morning just to let him know that we had spent the night in Kitale town. He gave direction to the project, but he cautions, “We are a little out of town” that is fine. About fifteen minutes drive we met him at a small shopping center, around him, there were young people. Both boys and girls milling around his Toyota Mark II. It was about five of them and they all screezed themselves in his car, he tells us to drive behind him. He drives ahead of us on a wet marrum road at high speed, I tell my colleague this guy has the right car for this road, will our car make it. Anyway we successfully followed him. About kilometer away, he stops the car, and we pull off the road next to his car, here we notice a little building on the roadside painted in green and yellow colors and branded Tysa. The colors are fading away, he notices the shock on my face and reckons, “this is our old office, we had rented it, but due to financial constraints, we can’t afford the rent so we are moving out to a new place, allow me to pick some records” I wonder, how much rent would they be paying for this facility? Probably USD 100 per month.

He jumps in his car and zooms off at high speed again as we follow him, he realizes that we are not in his sight, so he stops at bridge that is flooded for the previous nights’ rains. Our car wades through the water slowly and we cross to the other side, the story is the same, we drive behind him in hot pursuit again and we stop at a large field soaked in rain water and wet soil, he gets out of his car and tells me , “this is our stadium “ there were tented latrines { long drops} around this big field covered with UNDP tents, Goal posts and netball/ handball posts, the marks of an athletic truck had been washed away by the heavy downpour, but we could see some signs of it.

There were young people both boys and girls, busy with different sporting activities, a small boy was brought in on a wheel chair, other kids pass on the ball to him and that excites him, next to us is another child who seems to be mentally challenged trying to climb on Gichukis back , and another small girl calling out uncle!, uncle!, he talks to her while the other boy is still perched on his back, he puts him down and consults with a group of young girls standing in one corner for the field, so many things are happening, some old women and men suddenly appear and are just hanging around , who is this guy? I wonder silently, surely there is something about this guy, I tell my colleague, I just can’t wait to hear the story of this man.

This guy is so popular within the community; I was forced to ask him, if he has ever contemplated trying his hands in politics, he gives me a big NO. You see that problems we are dealing with now were caused by politicians; we are spending a lot of time and energy doing fire fighting through peace building, psycho social support for IDPs, and resettlement of families and formation of peace clubs in schools. All this energy would have been directed to building the capacities o f this young people through sports and education.

With the tribal dynamics in Kenya, I can’t help, but ask him how he survived the post election violence, now that he belonged to the perceived “wrong tribe”, I was born and brought up in this community, and this is my home. This people are my fathers, mothers, daughters and sons, I am a Kenyan. The realization that I am Kenyan made me survive the violence. Through sports, I visited Rwanda, and what I saw in that country, sharpened me, I can never think tribal. My experience from the trip helped a lot in putting together the peace meeting; some of the youth who travelled with me were the facilitators of the peace meeting. Leah said she would tell her friends that this project is great: They are making a difference.

He ushers us into a small newly constructed building with iron sheet walls and roof, the floor is made of mad, they have improvised timber for seats. “This is our new premise, the little extension at the far corner will act as our office and the rest of the room will be a youth friendly counseling centre. This brings all services closer to the people” This unsung hero has donated his own land that he inherited from his father to the community, and he has no regrets whatsoever for that action. “While other farmers plant maize on their farms, I plant the future of this nation on my farm, the youth” he says. I was shocked by what he called his house, simple and the boys just walk in and out at will.

I ask about the levels of Global Giving funding to TYSA, “They have been funding our girl’s education and disability project for which we are forever grateful. You can see that we have been able to take these children to special schools, and the young mothers back to school, we held one disability day and we are planning the next on 1st of June.

We had a peace and reconciliation meeting with all IDPs in this area and the local community, that’s why you can see those latrines {long drops}, this was in partnership with UNDP, and they put them up. We are still using sports to enhance the capacity of young people while at the same time preaching peace.

What are your future plans? We ask? “The list is long, but if we can have this building completed, the young people can have a place to access information, read watch movies, learn how to use the internet, interacts with the rest of the world, but look at our situation, we trust God that will touch the hearts of our friends to help us reach there. You see we need electricity, the power line is just next us here, but we need about USD 1000 to have the same fixed in out new building.

Truly this project has lifted this community to a new level; all that is left is a strategy to sustain the same I tell my colleague. This mother Teresa has done so much with so little, how much more could he do if he had enough?, that was the question that still lingers in my heart to date. “The needs are overwhelming, the resources are minimal, we cant do it alone, we need all of you out there” appeals Gichuki.

Leah said that she would tell her friends this project is "incredible: You need to see this!"

GlobalGiving is committed to incorporating many viewpoints on our 600+ projects. We feel that more information,especially from eyewitnesses helps donors like you continue to support organizations doing great work in the community.

Last month Kara and Michael visited over a dozen GlobalGiving projects in Kenya, including this one.

Kara wrote:

"While recently in western Kenya, I had the pleasure of spending the day with Gichuki Francis, the executive director of TYSA (Transnzoia Youth Sports Association). After an early start, we visited three schools – all located in very rural parts of Kenya. As Gichuki described it, we were “deep in the bush.” These schools had all received assistance from TYSA, especially when many of the rural families were displaced after the post-election violence.

Throughout the day, I realized that TYSA is doing many diverse activities to help the poor in rural western Kenya. What hit me most during the day was visiting with a widowed woman who had ten kids – four of them had mental or physical disabilities. But living in extreme poverty, she lacked the resources to do anything about their situation, so they all remained at home. A community health worker discovered the situation and referred them to TYSA, who has adopted the care of the rural disabled as one of their priorities. TYSA took them in to medical specialists where they were diagnosed for the first time in their lives. TYSA now hopes to get them into specialized schools, but they don’t currently have the funding to do so, since such expenses are costly and they are already paying school expenses for other disabled poor. I was struck by the isolation and lack of care that exists for many of those who are disabled and born into rural poverty.

I also met a young boy – about 10 or 11 years old – who had received a wheelchair from TYSA. Until recently , he had never been able to leave the house, because his legs are crippled. Once he got his first wheelchair, his life completely changed. Both he and his father were beaming as I spoke with them. They were incredibly grateful for the gift of the wheelchair. Gichuki says that this boy is now a completely different person. And Gichuki is trying to find a suitable yet affordable school for this boy to go to, where his needs can be met, and TYSA hopes to cover his school fees. TYSA is a great organization, not only focusing on sports for social change, but also extending care to the rural poor in other ways."

Michael wrote:

"TYSA works on many projects both with Global Giving and with C.A.R.E. Gichuki had a full day planned for us. We started by visiting an elementary school that was greatly affected by the post-election violence in 2008 Most of the students were forced out of their homes and into camps for IDPs (Internally Displaced Persons). They were unable to grow crops and have to rely on the government for food rations. Gichuki often comes to this school to engage in play and counseling for the students to help them process the atrocities they witnessed during the violence.

We then visited a nearby school, where Gichuki pays for the tuition for a couple young ladies who were child brides in Kisumu, but later escaped back to their home area.

Next we visited a family where the single mother had several mentally disabled children. Some of her children got married and some are working nearby, but still she has three at home who are of varying functionality.

After that we visited another school whose football/soccer program was one of the top in Eastern Africa. It had won many regional championships. TYSA gave scholarships to several young ladies at the school and we spoke to an enraptured student body.

Then we visited a technical school where some of TYSA's students were attending to get skills. Gichuki spoke with the principal about strengthening their partnership. To be honest, I think this visit was more for his benefit than ours.

We visited TYSA's soccer field and office last. There we tested our survey and met several other beneficiaries we didn't have time to visit, including Collins.

Gichuki strikes me as very open and excited about using technology and networking skills to the benefit of those in his organization. He is well known and respected. A local KBC correspondent visited him to discuss ways to promote his projects while we were talking at our hotel. He definitely has a more proactive and western view on how to find funding for his programs."

When asked what they would tell their friends about TYSA, Kara said, "Great: They are making a difference" and Michael said, "Incredible: You need to see this!"

GlobalGiving is committed to incorporating many viewpoints on our 600+ projects through Visitor Postcards. We feel that more information, especially from eyewitnesses helps donors like you continue to support organizations doing great work in the community.

Dear friend, You continuous contribution makes you one of us in the family of TYSA. Your generous contribution has kept this project Alive! I want to let you know that you have made us the beneficiaries gain recognition in our community and even made our self-esteem high.

I want you to know that it was not easy for us to be where we are today if you never came to our support. For example, I was thinking about going to the street (Prostitution) and get some little cash to support my children.

Dear Friend, just imagine what would have become of me if you did not come in time to save me and the rest of the members of this project. We want to let you know that we are grateful for your contribution. We have a long way to go to clear our studies (2 Years) and we hope you will be with us on this long journey.

Warm Regards from your dear daughters/Sisters!!

On behalf of the girls

Elizabeth Njeri (Mechanic student)

Accounting for all funds received up-to-date 17.04 .2009

Accounting for every penny donated:

We want to thank you for your contribution which has amounted to 2,905 US Dollars. It is real encouraging to see how little contribution put together makes great difference.

This is how your contribution has been spent: 1.Meals for 60 children of the orphaned teen mothers: 250US$ 2.School fees for 15 orphaned Teen mothers: 1700 US$ 3.Loan to 2 teen mothers to buy cow for milk: 200 US$ 4.Loan for 2 Teen Mothers to start small business: 105 US$ 5.Medical bills for 35 children: 250 US$ 6.Paying 2 volunteer teachers for children: 250 US$ 7.Training 30 Mothers for 2 days in Business: 150 US$

Beneficiaries Served We have so far been able to serve 45 Teen mothers and 60 children. We are happy that their lives have changed and taking positive dimension

Challenge: Our main challenge remains educational support both for the Teen Mothers and their children. We 25 children who are now ready to join nursery school, and 30 Teen mothers ready to join secondary school in 2010

Hope We believe with your continued support we shall be able to provide support for these needy members of our community.

My name Metrine Chelagat, a 20 years old girl. My dream was to be a doctor to save my people from diseases.

My dream was shuttered when I dropped out of primary school due to early pregnancy. I have a 2 year baby girl.

I had lost all my hope of ever making it in life. My parents are poor and we live as squatters.

After TYSA introduced sports program late last year I was attracted and joined. It is here where I regained my lost dream. TYSA Director Mr.Gichuki Francis was so instrumental in encouraging me to participate in sports program

Am overwhelmed by how much sports has changed my life. I look even younger than my age. I am currently training as a tailor/dressmaker and fashion design at Kapenguria Youth Polytechnic courtesy of Goblalgiving family.

I hope other girls who are in my state could get more support for them to come and achieve their dreams through your support. I want to change the lives of 50 girls in my community who are affected by early pregnancies and prevent more than 3000 others who are at risk of early pregnancies.

Can you help us win $5000 for the Educating 250 orphaned Teen Mothers. All you need to do is make a donation of $10 or more to ww.globalgiving.com/2161,www.globalgiving.com/2173 Global Giving is running a competition to give $5,000 to the Women's project that can call in the largest number of donations. Have a look at the http://www.globalgiving.com/dy/v2/womenx2challenge.html. We need you to make a donation to take the top spot! Global giving will double your donation too. We have plans to develop WOMEN EMPOWERMENT CENTRE and project will significantly benefit from $5,000.

Please help us win this prize by donating now and tell your other 5 friends to donate 10 US$

Heart Felt Thank you

Gichuki Francis

Metrine with her 2 year old girl

Back to our Dreams

January and February were a busy month as it was back to school season.

We want to report that a great success has been achieved by the girls who are in our project. All the 8 girls who did their Kenya Certificate of Primary Education were successful and joined secondary education

Magdalene joined Vocational training and taking a course in Mechanics. Metrine, Joined vocational training college and taking a course in Tailoring and Fashion design Edna, Lillian, Eucabeth, Rose, Susan and Mary have all joined form One and have the next four years to complete their secondary education.

‘Globalgiving has become our family, our care take and our love’ Metrine, a beneficiary who is taking a course in Tailoring and fashion design.

From your kind donations, this is how the money has been spend for education: Vocational training fees for 2 girls US$ 700 Secondary education fees for 6 form one girls US$ 1200 Secondary education for continuing 12 girls US$ 1400

We look forward to your continued support to help the girls attain their dreams. Next school terms starts in May 2009 and your donations will help the girls to go back to school

From Marriage back to Classroom

Eucabeth is a 17 year old girl from rural part of our district. At the age of 15, after completing primary school, she got married for one year. She got a child and thereafter the family life become very hard and divorced by her husband. She returned to her mothers’ home last year. Unfortunately the Post election Violence affected them so much. To date they still stay in a tent. While TYSA was offering sporting and psychos-social support for the children and youth, Mss Eucabeth became very interested in our programs. During the interactions with TYSA, she indicated her desire to go back to school. She is now in secondary Form two.

Ms Eucabeth desire to complete her studies is unstoppable. Despite all odds she is focused and involved in sports programs to reshape herself and be re-energized. She is from a single mother who also stays with her grand mother.

As an organization we are very encouraged with her commitment. We shall through your continued donations support her education and see her become a powerful women in the society

Make your contribution today to help pay school fees for Eucabeth.

Giving back to community Josephine decided to open her own hair dressing/ saloon business after completing her course earl this year. Josephine is one of the beneficiaries of this project. She had lost hope after becoming pregnant at the age of 14.

After delivery, and breast feeding her baby for 6 months, she went to a hair dressing college for one year. She is very grateful to TYSA and globalgiving donors who have changed her life for better. ‘People used to despise me and say my life is lost. Today they come to my saloon for hair dressing’ Josephine

Josephine is now able to feed her baby and take care of her own needs. The community looks at her differently as opposed to when she was pregnant. She is able to contribute to community development.Josepine is now training other girls in hair dressing With more donations, we are able to support more girls to live their dreams

Happy New Year ‘My name is Beatrice, a beneficiary of your donations. Am writing on behalf of my friends to wish you all the best in 2009. We want you to know that we are very encouraged and inspired by your kind donations through global giving. We receive all that you donate. Remember us in this new year.’

SIGNIFICANT CHANGE MADE

Through, ‘Educating Teenage Orphaned Mothers Project’, four teenage orphaned mothers have secured a place in secondary school next year.

The four girls, Lillian, Lydia, Lucy and Eucabeth demonstrated high soccer skills, disciplined and leadership. They will be joining one of the soccer power house secondary schools in Kenya.

We want to thank all of you through Globalgiving who continually support this project on educating Teenage orphaned mothers.

What you are offering however little is making great change in the lives of these girls who had lost hope in life. ‘I would not have imagined what is happening to my life now a few years ago before I joined this project. I was confused and lost hope after I became pregnant at age 13. Thank you to all your donations which reach us through TYSA. Next year am joining secondary school. Please continue supporting us so t hat we remain and complete school.’ Lilian

20 orphaned teenage mothers acquired vital business skills last week.A two day seina was organised by this project to equip the girls with business skills.

'Am very happy today, as I have lerant how to start a business, manage it and mae profit.' Chepkurui.

The girls discovered their great potential t hat has not been taped for a long time. The girls suggetsed that they be supported to start tailoriing, dress makng, cookery among other business. This project wll oranize another workshop next year to follow up and support the grls to start small business. This project will next year work with schools to get tenders to make uniforms.

We hope that your continued support will make these project great for the girls.

Three more girls pictured below are back in school after getting support and are happy to be back to continue with their education. 'We are greatful to the donations that have enabled us to go to school. We hope that more support will come so that our kids are taking care of as we learn' Rebecca,Eunice and Mary

We ahve been able to purchase some warm clothes for kids. We are hoping to porvide more clothesas christmas gifts to 200 kids in December. 5 US$ buys clothes for 2 children.

Warm clothes for this little kid. your donation continues to off

Your donation has enabled Miss Mary to sustain her small vendor business of buying and selling sugar cane. From this small, Mary get cash to buy food and clothing for her child, which was not possible before she joint the project. Bring more smiles to teenage orphaned mothers!! Make you donation today!

Mss Agness , is now enjoying a rare opportunity. She is now milking her cow which wa sbough by the project. this cow which cost US$ 400 ha sbrough joy to her daughter. Her daughter no wgets milk imporving her health.

Now Agness can continue with her studies while the daughter enjoys milk.

with your continued support, we shallbe able to buy more cows to the teeange girls.

On 20th October 200, children of Teenage mothers and a rare opportunity to enjoy and have fun!!! Over 50 kids together with the rest of the children from the community spend an afternoon learning gymnastics, playing and ride old tyres.

Two volunteers form Denmark, Rasmus and Camilla spend three weeks with the teenage mothers, their children and local community in supporting the project. They offered key live skills to the children.

This project supports 150 teenage orphaned mothers to get education, support them to start Income generating activities e.g. keeping cows for milk and offer safe space for 30 children of teenage mothers as their mothers go to school to continue with education.

Majority of the teenage orphaned mothers are in primary school, few in secondary school and others in vocational training centers. So far 25 girls have graduated and are making their own living and supporting their own children.

70 of the Teenage mothers were affected by the post election violence which affected the country early this year. Most of them were in the Internally Displaced Camps and few were accommodated in homes. This disrupted the projected so much. We are now trying to reorganize and offer them much needed support.

Children have no food and these makes the mothers to go looking for work in order to feed the children. This has affected school attendance.

“I can not go to school and leave my child hungry. I would prefer to go and look for food first the school later” Mercy

Your 10 US$ will feed one child for 14 days as the mother goes to school.

Master Simon riding an old tyre