SUMMER INTERNSHIP STORIES 2024-Marissa Flores

June- August 2024

From Airports to Impact: My Immersive Experience with Women Volunteers for Peace

After enduring a grueling day and a half of travel—bouncing between Denver, New York, and Nairobi, grappling with dubious airport food, and navigating sleepless hours in cramped seats—I finally arrived in Kisumu, Kenya. This vibrant city would be my home for the next eight weeks. I was nervous. I had traveled abroad but had never been international for this long before; I was unsure what I had in store for the coming months. As I emerged from the airport, the sight of warm, welcoming faces holding signs that read, “Waruaki Dala, Marissa,” was a heartening beginning to my adventure.

The hosts who greeted us at the airport—Olivent, Sherry, and Kogola—were the first to make us feel truly at home. They guided us through the essential task of getting Kenyan SIM cards, which was a perfect indication that their priorities were aligned with ours. With their help, we were soon settled into our Airbnb, ready to relax before diving into our work at Women Volunteers for Peace (WOVOP).

Our Airbnb was nestled in Milimani, a homey and posh neighborhood in Kisumu. Our landlady, Eunice, greeted us and ensured our accommodations matched our liking. When we arrived in Kisumu, we were warmly welcomed and hosted by Eunice and our team, who indicated what would come for the rest of our time. Our homestay was roughly a 15-minute walk from work, and we would meet more friendly and interesting individuals along the way.

WOVOP is a dynamic and forward-thinking non-profit based in Kenya’s Lake Region Economic Bloc. The organization supports at-risk girls and women through health, peace, and security education initiatives. Its vibrant team—comprised of young women and one man, all under 35—embodies the organization's progressive spirit. Their passion and dedication were evident from the start, making our time at WOVOP exciting and deeply rewarding. Our roles as mental health interns were diverse and engaging. We supported various organizational tasks, facilitated "Mental Fridays"—a Facebook livestream addressing mental health topics—and supported "Girls Talk," a program focused on discussing crucial issues related to girls’ and young women’s health and well-being. We also introduced a "Staff Wellness Hour" to boost staff morale and combat organizational burnout. This integration into their work was as fulfilling as it was eye-opening.

The staff’s and local community’s relational warmth was palpable. They eagerly introduced us to local delicacies like beef choma, Chipati, Ugali, and Tilapia, ensuring we experienced Kenyan cuisine's rich flavors. Our weekends were filled with recommendations for must-see spots like the Kisumu Impala Sanctuary, Dunga Hill Beach Camp, and Lake Victoria, as well as opportunities to explore the local nightlife.

During our stay, we witnessed a significant moment in Kenyan history: nationwide demonstrations by Gen Z against a controversial financial bill that President Ruto and the parliament heavily endorsed. The bill was eventually dropped due to public pressure, sparking passionate debates on civil education, anti-corruption, and economic empowerment. Being a part of this historic period was exhilarating and underscored the vibrant and engaged spirit of the Kenyan people.

Our journey also took us beyond Kisumu. We ventured to Mombasa, with its stunning views of the Indian Ocean, and enjoyed a safari in Maasai Mara, renowned for its breathtaking Savannah landscapes and majestic wildlife. We also participated in a hike that helped fundraise for our Keep a Girl Safe and In School Campaign. This allowed us to venture into Kisumu’s natural and beautiful landscape and bond with the locals who make everything possible.

As a mental health support intern at WOVOP in Kenya, I’ve been deeply moved by the resilience and passion of the communities I’ve had the privilege to work with. The vibrancy of Kenya's landscapes is matched only by the determination of its people to foster peace and equality, most notably their younger generations. I witnessed firsthand how local women, girls, and men are at the center of grassroots initiatives, addressing everything from gender-based violence to shifting political trajectories through powerful demonstrations and dedication. Seeing their thoughtful approaches and unwavering commitment is humbling and inspiring.

Collaboration with local leaders and organizations has broadened my perspective on the multifaceted challenges the communities surrounding Kisumu face and highlighted the critical role of community-driven solutions in driving meaningful change. Through workshops, advocacy, and mobilization, it’s evident that these efforts are not just about creating immediate relief but are laying the groundwork for long-term transformation.

My time here has reinforced my belief in the power of collective action and the profound impact of supporting and empowering women and girls as catalysts for peace and progress.

Programs like Girls Talk and the Keep a Girl Safe and in School Campaign were among my most memorable experiences working with WOVOP. Engaging directly with our target beneficiaries was deeply fulfilling and reinforced my passion for the vital work we were doing. WOVOP excelled at diversifying its initiatives to reach a broad audience and create meaningful impact across various communities.

My time at WOVOP and in Kenya was both challenging and rewarding. The experience enriched my professional skills and deepened my growth, teaching me the value of diverse perspectives and overcoming social, language, and comfort barriers. Our work was fulfilling and called to the importance of the work WOVOP strives to give back to the community. The people of Kisumu were warm, friendly, and curious about us. Though we were often called “Mzungus,” it was almost always said affectionately and with a toothy grin to accompany it. Our friends and colleagues taught me that curiosity, connection, and authenticity can transcend the physical and cultural boundaries that have separated us.

THANK YOU KENYA