As part of the Academy’s 10th-anniversary celebrations, the final cohort to complete the Middle Years Programme Personal Project shared reflections that highlighted their distinct voices, passions, and learning journeys. Each project demonstrates how curiosity, creativity, and determination can lead to meaningful outcomes.
Trady Lewis – Technology, Music, and Problem-Solving
Trady’s project, Glow with the Flow, combined Arduino technology with music to create a visual cello tuner for beginner players. His journey was defined by hands-on experimentation, late-night troubleshooting, and the excitement of watching an idea come alive step by step. Turning his concept into a functional tool strengthened his patience, creativity, and confidence in tackling complex challenges, making his exhibition experience especially meaningful.
Takona – Storytelling Rooted in Culture
Through writing an original short story, Takona explored themes of identity, culture, and resilience. Bringing her characters to life and shaping a narrative that reflected African traditions made the project deeply personal. Even with moments of writer’s block and tight deadlines, she discovered how much joy and strength can be found in storytelling, emerging with stronger organisation and communication skills—and a renewed love for writing.
Sybil Okema – Music Creation and Personal Expression
Sybil’s project allowed her to discover the expressive power of music. Working with digital tools and learning production techniques made her feel like she was stepping into the world of real creators. Although she faced moments of doubt and the pressure of wanting her work to feel “good enough,” the process taught her to trust her instincts. Her exhibition moment reminded her just how far she had come from her early uncertainty.
Salahdeen – Writing, Leadership, and Reflection
Salahdeed’s project centred on producing an e-book—a journey filled with both satisfaction and frustration. Seeing his story develop was rewarding, especially after long writing sessions that stretched his discipline. Although publishing challenges and research organisation tested him, the experience helped him grow more confident in his voice and more thoughtful about issues shaping society.
Maryline – Artisanship and Environmental Stewardship
Maryline discovered a new craft by learning to weave baskets from water hyacinth fibres sourced from Lake Victoria. The project felt special because it allowed her to connect creativity with environmental purpose. Learning an unfamiliar skill, preparing the fibres, and experimenting with designs pushed her beyond her comfort zone, giving her a sense of pride each time her work took shape. Her journey showed her how her hands—and ideas—can make a real difference.
Lillian Andeso – Scientific Inquiry and Resilience
Lillian’s exploration of bioplastics was shaped by shifting ideas, many failed attempts, and moments when the project felt overwhelming. Yet each setback taught her something new about perseverance. When her final product finally held together, it symbolised more than scientific success—it reflected her growth in patience, planning, and belief in her ability to learn through challenge.
Levis Wanyama – Fitness Education and Design
Levis’ shift from creating a fitness video to producing a fitness e-book allowed him to craft a more complete resource for students. Designing pages, selecting visuals, and refining his content made him realise how much he enjoyed guiding others toward healthier habits. Even with tight deadlines and demanding schoolwork, he found pride in creating something practical and helpful for his community.
Janet Jepchumba – Sustainability Through Innovation
Janet’s project, Turning Waste into Worth, focused on transforming plastic waste into functional planters. Seeing her community respond positively reminded her that sustainable ideas can start small and still inspire real change. Although balancing schoolwork, planning, and product creation was demanding, she found motivation in knowing she was addressing a problem that mattered to her and to her environment.
Honouring the Final PP Cohort
As the Academy transitions into the next decade and beyond, we continue to reaffirm our commitment to nurturing adaptable, creative, and socially conscious young people. We are proud of the foundation this cohort has laid and excited to continue developing transformational leaders who will influence Kenya and the world for years to come.
