03/08/2026
Yesterday we were greatly honoured to receive an invitation from the Kenya Student Christian Fellowship (KSCF) to participate in the Upper Coast Regional Convention 2026, held at Voi Boys Senior School, Taita. The convention brought together students from schools across Taita Taveta County under the inspiring theme:
"Growing and Bearing Fruits."
Our team, led by our psychologist Madam Immaculate Mwaluma Polly , had the privilege of facilitating a session focused on mental wellness, personal growth, and spiritual development. We reminded the students that true growth is reflected not only in academic excellence but also in character, resilience, and the values they uphold.
Key lessons shared during the session:
*Living a Stable Life with Spiritual Values A stable life begins with a strong spiritual foundation. Values such as integrity, honesty, respect, love, humility, and obedience to God help young people make wise decisions even when faced with challenges and peer pressure.
*Stress is a Real Health Challenge Stress is a normal part of life, but when left unmanaged it can affect our physical, emotional, academic, and spiritual well-being. Students were encouraged to recognize stress early and develop healthy coping strategies.
* Depression is a Psychological Illness Depression is not a sign of weakness or lack of faith. It is a real mental health condition that requires understanding, support, and sometimes professional help. No one should suffer in silence.
*Seek Help from Safe People Everyone needs someone they can trust. Students were encouraged to speak to safe people such as parents, guardians, siblings, trusted teachers, church leaders, counsellors, or other responsible adults whenever they are overwhelmed.
*Mental Health Matters Good mental health enables us to think clearly, manage emotions, build healthy relationships, and overcome life's challenges. Taking care of our minds is just as important as taking care of our bodies.
*Self-Care is Essential Self-care is not selfish—it is necessary. Looking after ourselves helps us remain emotionally, mentally, physically, and spiritually healthy.
-Mental Self-Care Habits • Learn healthy ways to manage stress. • Seek support instead of carrying burdens alone. • Develop positive thinking and healthy coping skills.
-Emotional Self-Care Habits • Understand and express your emotions in healthy ways. • Build positive friendships. • Forgive, communicate openly, and avoid bottling up feelings.
Spiritual Self-Care • Maintain a consistent prayer life. • Read and meditate on God's Word. • Trust God through every season of life.
-Physical Self-Care Habits • Eat healthy meals. • Exercise regularly. • Get enough sleep. • Maintain good personal hygiene. • Avoid drugs and substance abuse.
-Bearing Fruits: Discovering Your Potential
Every young person has unique gifts and talents placed within them by God. To bear lasting fruit:
-Listen to the positive guidance and purpose God places within your heart.
-Set healthy boundaries that protect your values, dreams, and future.
-Practice patience. Growth takes time, and success is built through consistency and perseverance.
As reminded in 1 Corinthians 6:19–20, our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit; therefore, we should honour God by taking care of ourselves in every aspect of life.
We sincerely thank Kenya Student Christian Fellowship (KSCF) for giving Okoa Boychild Initiative the opportunity to be part of this impactful convention. It was a privilege to interact with the students and contribute to shaping a generation that is spiritually grounded, mentally healthy, and purpose-driven.
We look forward to many more opportunities to partner in empowering young people and building stronger communities.
