"When I joined the Strivers Explorers, I had no idea it would be so much more than just fun activities. My auntie Coura created this program to give kids and teens a break from phones, screens, and doing nothing, and honestly, it's been amazing!"
About the Author: Khady is a 17-year-old Strivers Achievers Voice contributor for The Bridge, sharing her experiences as a young leader in the Strivers Explorers programme.
We participate in activities, play games, eat together, and even learn about important historical events. The goal? To have fun, grow together, and dream big.
Leading the Tree of Dreams Activity
I led the Tree of Dreams activity for Black History Month for the younger group called Strivers Explorer. We learned about Nelson Mandela and why he's important. If I could describe him in three words he believed it would be equality, peace, and being kind.
The Tree of Dreams
Everyone wrote or drew their dreams on a big paper tree: it was The Tree of Dreams. I helped the Strivers Explorers and made sure everyone got a turn.
Reflection
My favourite part of the day was definitely seeing the Tree of Dreams covered in everyone's colourful hopes. It made me feel inspired, proud, and hopeful. I realised that even small actions, like listening or sharing an idea, can make a big difference.
"I realised that even small actions, like listening or sharing an idea, can make a big difference."
The Best Listener Certificate
We also gave out a Best Listener Certificate. I loved this idea because being a leader isn't about talking the most, it's about paying attention, showing respect, and supporting others.
To choose the winner, we watched for someone who really listened, waited their turn, responded to reflection and encouraged others. The winner felt proud, the group cheered, and it reminded everyone that listening is just as important as speaking.
What Makes a Great Listener?
- Really listened to others
- Waited their turn patiently
- Responded thoughtfully to reflection
- Encouraged and supported others
The Power of Listening
I learned that listening is a superpower. When you listen, you understand people better. You can learn, help, and even lead, just like Mandela did. I would definitely like to give out more certificates in the future, maybe for teamwork, creativity, or kindness next time!
Listening is a superpower
When you listen, you understand people better. You can learn, help, and even lead.
A Lesson from School
If I could share one more thing, it's something I learnt from school: readers are leaders!
Readers Are Leaders
Learning never stops, and every book opens a new door to understanding, empathy, and growth.
Comments (0)
Share Your Thoughts
Khady, 17
Strivers Achievers Voice for The Bridge
Khady is a 17-year-old youth leader and contributor for The Bridge, sharing her experiences of growing up African and British. Through her work with Strivers Explorers, she mentors younger children and demonstrates that leadership is about listening, learning, and lifting others up.
Join Strivers Explorers & Achievers
Are you ready to have fun, grow, and dream big? Strivers Explorers (ages 7-11) and Strivers Achievers (ages 12-17) offer activities that build confidence, celebrate culture, and create community. Come learn about history, develop leadership skills, and make lasting friendships!
Related Articles
Building The Bridge
Discover how The Bridge programme supports families navigating multiple cultural identities and creating spaces where everyone belongs.
Read MoreBetween Three Worlds
Fatima shares her journey of growing up between Senegal, Italy, and England, and embracing her multicultural identity.
Read More
Loading comments...