EMPOWERING THE NEXT GENERATION: A TRANSFORMATIVE MENTORSHIP SESSION AT FAITH HEART SCHOOL

As the month drew to a close, we had the opportunity to engage with the pupils of Faith Heart School, located in Lukwanga, Wakiso District. This mentorship session was held ahead of their new academic term. While there, we had a very interactive session with the children and this was proof of our ongoing commitment to creating safe, educational and inspiring spaces for young people, spaces where they can learn, question, reflect and grow. Our focus was on menstrual hygiene and management, overcoming peer pressure, developing essential life skills and building healthy relationships. Each topic was chosen with care, recognizing the needs and realities of the children we serve.

We began the session by setting a tone of trust and respect and pupils were encouraged to share their thoughts and experiences without fear of judgment. Our goal was not just to lecture them, but to start conversations that help them make informed choices, navigate challenges and see the value in themselves and others. We witnessed a group of children who, when given the chance, were eager to learn, participate and ask thought provoking questions. The safe environment helped them open up about real concerns in their lives, many of which are rarely discussed in public or at home.

During our session, we used simple language, visual aids and real-life examples to explain what menstruation is, why it happens and how to manage it hygienically. We also emphasized that menstruation is a natural process and nothing to be ashamed of. At the end of this session, we watched girls sit up taller, ask bold questions and share their own experiences. Some confessed they had never talked about menstruation before in public. That moment alone reminded us that change begins with knowledge and the willingness to listen.

In today’s day and era, peer pressure is one of the leading influences on a child’s behavior, especially during school-going age. It often leads children to make choices that they later regret whether it’s skipping class, engaging in risky behaviors or adopting negative attitudes. We guided the pupils through understanding what peer pressure is, how to recognize it and practical ways to resist it. We reminded them that being different is okay and that having the strength to say “no” is a sign of courage not weakness.

In a world where children are constantly influenced by social media, television and peer groups, teaching basic life skills is more important than ever. Our session covered communication, self-awareness, problem-solving and emotional intelligence. We also talked about healthy relationships, how to identify them, how to maintain boundaries and why respect, kindness and trust are important. Many pupils admitted they didn’t know they had a right to say “no” to things that made them uncomfortable, even from people they trust. What made this mentorship session so impactful was not just what we taught, but how we listened. We gave every child a chance to be heard. Their questions showed their willingness to learn and need for guidance. 

The mentorship session at Faith Heart School reminded us of our work at Raising Teenagers Uganda. We are not just sharing knowledge; we are building futures. Every child we reach is a life influenced, a story redirected and a future strengthened. By focusing on menstrual health, peer pressure, life skills and relationships, we are tackling real issues with real solutions. Our hope is that every pupil we met will carry these lessons with them into their homes, their classrooms and their communities. We are grateful to the school administration for opening their doors to us and believing in the power of mentorship. 

COMPILED BY: MBABAZI PILLAR