WOVOP VOLUNTEER/INTERNSHIP EXPERIENCES-Meet Beryl Mary📝

Get ready to immerse yourself in another awe-inspiring blog post as we delve into the extraordinary experiences of our dedicated volunteers and interns at WOVOP! These incredible individuals have left an indelible mark on our organization, fueling our mission to create a more equitable and empowering world. Brace yourself for tales of passion, resilience, and unwavering commitment to making a positive impact.

Beryl Mary, a vibrant 25-year-old who before she joined WOVOP in 2021, expressed interest in supporting our mental health programs through her volunteerism as a psychologist.

As a psychology student at Kenyatta University then, she explicitly decided to seek an opportunity at WOVOP to put her knowledge and experience into practice and create actual impacts in society. Beryl spent more than 1 transformative year with us at WOVOP. She joined our mental health department as a dedicated therapist, providing support both in the field, working directly with clients, and at the office.

During her time as a staff volunteer, Beryl developed a keen interest in the 'Keeping a Girl Safe and in School' campaign, a powerful initiative at WOVOP aiming at combatting teenage pregnancy in the community. However, she encountered a challenge that deeply resonated with her - the inadequate mental health services in the communities she worked with. Undeterred, Beryl took matters into her own hands and organized regular MENTAL FRIDAYS every Friday from 4-5pm EAT, ensuring that the community had a space to address their mental well-being.

While working closely with the communities, Beryl noticed a troubling trend - there was a higher demand for dignity kits than the available supply. This scarcity became one of her low moments, as she struggled to meet the needs of her clients due to limited resources. On a brighter note, she cherished the team-building activities, which brought joy and camaraderie to her volunteer experience.

Driven by her passion for mental health, Beryl pursued a ground-breaking program that utilized technology to reach and educate individuals facing various mental health challenges. She recognized the importance of follow-up care and recommended tracking the progress of the guests who attended the mental health Fridays to ensure their well-being. Beryl described WOVOP as an exceptional learning organization that left a profound impact on her.

Beryl's journey as a volunteer therapist with WOVOP was a testament to her unwavering commitment and determination to make a positive difference in the lives of others and the WOVOP Team too. Her contributions to bridging the gap in mental health services and empowering young girls in the community will forever be remembered as part of WOVOP's impactful legacy. We vividly remember and adore the monthly mental check-ins she passionately performed at the office with our team and we loved every bit of it. The WOVOP team truly appreciates you and your commitment.

Currently, Beryl is working as a professional therapist in one of the largest organizations in Nairobi, Kenya.

When asked if she would recommend volunteering and the Internship program at WOVOP to any young person out there, she said that it is a great opportunity to learn new skills and network. So you definitely should!

Leave your appreciation and comments for Beryl down below!