New beginnings have a way of imposing hope, a chance to redeem oneself; a clean-slate if you will. With it comes the thrill of the unexpected that both excites and causes the proverbial butterflies in the stomach.At least that’s how I felt, going for the Training of Trainers 2024 (ToT ’24). From the all-expenses-paid staycation at the Waterbuck, Nakuru (yes, ALL expenses) to the chance to make new friends, excitement would be an understatement. Coupled with the fact that our campus (Kabarak University) was the newest chapter, we felt like the newest kids on the block.Of course, this meant that we lacked predecessors to give us cheat codes on the dos and don’ts and tips and tricks to make it work. It was like navigating an unexplored frontier, not knowing what to expect, and boy did the butterflies in my stomach have a field day!
However, the feeling quickly disappeared as soon as the training started. The way it was structured made it all easily adaptable.I particularly enjoyed the interactive nature of the sessions. Normally, conferences and trainings involve hours of sitting in one spot, zoning in and out of the conference with far-spaced breaks. If you have a limited concentration span, you probably get just how frustrating this can be. For the ToT, the sessions were short, with educative games and productive breaks. Time passed without much realization.And the gala! Boy the gala! It was definitely one for the books. I, for one, found the dress code quite innovative; ‘Come as your favorite celebrity,’ they said. It was honestly inspiring to witness just how creative people can be as they came representing Queen Charlotte, Serena Van der Woodsen, Marilyn Monroe and so many other icons.
From my experience at the ToT ‘ 24, I can definitely say that when it comes to matters Respekt, sign me up!
By Hope Lorna RESPEKT Volunteer,Kabarak University.
