Nyeri Grandmothers Form Soccer Team, Mentor Youth

Grandmothers in Nyeri, Kenya, have established a soccer team and are involved in mentoring local teenagers. This unique initiative was observed during a recent visit to the region.

Miriam Wangui's Vision and the Grandmothers' Initiative

Miriam Wangui, after twenty years of humanitarian work with the United Nations in Geneva, returned to Kenya last year. She opened a training center that includes a soccer academy for teenagers. Wangui reported that the grandmothers independently formed their own team.

Miriam Wangui stated the grandmothers "just arrived one Friday" and expressed interest in having a team.

Ann Wanjugu, 72, is noted as the oldest participant. She indicated that her physical fitness has improved since joining, remarking on positive changes and feeling fit.

Mentoring and Community Spirit

On weekends, the grandmothers extend their involvement by engaging in mentoring sessions with teenagers. These sessions take place at the center's beauty school. The participants utilize existing resources, without specific uniforms or specialized boots, focusing on mutual development.