Posts / August 26, 2011

NairoBits

This afternoon I had the fortunate opportunity to speak with the students at NairoBits sharing my thoughts on dharma and using your talents to help others. NairoBits is a youth based organization in Nairobi aiming to counter the digital divide. It provides ICT and multimedia classes to help improve the lives of less privileged youth from the non-formal settlement.

I was happy to share some of my favorite motivational quotes and inspirational stories, but the conversation became really interesting when I asked what each of their special talents were. It was inspiring to hear their thoughts, and to discuss how those talents could be combined in a unique way to help others.

I was also completely humbled when they began sharing their own stories how they are already helping to improve their community. One student established an organization that turns used tires into sandals, giving some of the proceeds back to their community. Another student teaches free hair and markup classes to young girls which can help them earn an income. Another educates young girls on pregnancy prevention, and helps keep them in school by providing sanitary napkins.

I couldn’t help but think about Margaret Mead’s quote, “never underestimate the power of a small group of committed people to change the world. In fact, it is the only thing that ever has.”

Here is a group of youth individuals that have come from some of the poorest communities in the city, but are using their opportunity to improve themselves, and in the process to help others. I went to NairoBits as a teacher, but left very much as a student.