From 31st October to 2nd November, the 2025 Student Council Retreat took place at Tafaria Castle in Nyeri County, a weekend defined by reflection, recharging, and release, just as the theme suggested. Eighteen student leaders and three staff members took part in this transformative experience that blended learning, leadership, and leisure in the perfect balance.
Our journey began on a rainy Friday afternoon, with six hours of travel marked by laughter and anticipation. Upon arrival, we were welcomed warmly with juice and hot tea, a fitting comfort for the chilly weather. Despite the showers, spirits remained high as we settled into an environment that immediately encouraged relaxation and introspection.
The first day introduced us to personality types through the Clarity 4D session led by Coach Kelvin (CK). This insightful session helped us explore how personal traits influence leadership styles. We discovered that leaders could be defined by various colours, from action-oriented Reds to empathetic Greens. Understanding our individual traits gave us a new appreciation for teamwork and diversity within the council.
Day two was filled with excitement and growth. A highlight was the Art Session, where each member left their handprint on a canvas to form a hand-printed tree, a beautiful symbol of unity in diversity. It reminded us that although we each bring something different to the table, together we create something truly extraordinary.
Another memorable session was the Herbarium Taxonomy of Tafaria, which introduced us to the different “clans” of plants, including the Warriors, Diehards, Socialites, and the Edibles. The Edibles clan particularly stood out, teaching us that just like in leadership, we must understand our boundaries. We can nurture and help others grow, but also recognise when we must step back. This metaphor beautifully tied nature and leadership together, encouraging reflection on purpose and influence.
The Plate Arrangement Challenge tested our teamwork and communication. Plates scattered across the ground had to be collected in numerical order, demanding focus and coordination. The lesson was clear: leadership thrives on collaboration and clarity.
Of course, no retreat is complete without fun. We enjoyed swimming, pool, chess, and ended the day with an unforgettable dance night. It was a joyful celebration of friendship and connection, a chance to see new sides of each other (who knew Castro could dance?). The night became a symbol of letting go, laughing freely, and embracing one another beyond our roles.
As the retreat drew to a close, we concluded with thrilling activities like horse riding and archery. At the archery station, a quote caught our attention: “An arrow never comes back; choose your target.” It was a powerful reminder that every decision in leadership carries weight. Once we act, we must own our aim.
The 2025 Student Council Retreat at Tafaria Castle was more than a weekend getaway. It was a space to reflect on who we are, recharge our leadership energy, and let go of limiting thoughts. As we returned home, we carried stronger bonds, renewed purpose, and the realisation that leadership, like art and nature, flourishes when rooted in diversity, empathy, and collaboration.
by Derrick and Emma
