I was privileged to participate in the five-day AHAPPY Training of Trainers organised by AJAN at Ukweli Pastoral Centre. My experience has been enriching, and I have learnt a great deal. The training reminded me that knowledge has no limitation and that there is always something new to learn.

Before coming for the training, I was not fully aware of some of the challenges facing young people. However, the knowledge and skills I have gained through AJAN’s AHAPPY programme have given me a better understanding of these challenges and prepared me to return to my station and share what I have learnt with the young people I serve.

One area that particularly resonated with my work was the issue of the disconnect between young people and the wider community. Many young people experience vulnerability because of unemployment, social pressures and other challenges, and some may become exposed to crime, drug use and other harmful behaviours. Through this training, I have come to understand more deeply how these vulnerabilities can affect young people and how, as a chaplain, I can accompany them towards making healthier and more positive choices.

My experience working with inmates has shown me that unemployment is often mentioned as one of the factors contributing to crime. Many young people struggle to find ways of earning a living and supporting themselves. However, the training has helped me realise that empowerment can open other possibilities. Young people can be encouraged to discover their abilities, develop their potential and explore self-employment rather than seeing formal employment as the only path to survival.

Drug and substance abuse is another major challenge among young people. From my interaction with inmates, I have seen how difficult it can be for some of them to move away from substance use. The training has helped me appreciate the importance of awareness and self-discovery in addressing this challenge. By sharing the knowledge I have gained and helping young people develop self-awareness, I believe we can encourage them to recognise their own potential and make positive changes in their lives.

One of the key lessons I am taking back with me is that change begins with the individual. We have been reminded that it begins with “I”—with me and with what I choose to do. As a chaplain, this has challenged me to begin with myself and then accompany others towards change.

I am grateful to AJAN for the opportunity to participate in this training. I now feel better equipped to return to my station, share what I have learnt and empower the young people I work with. I believe that when young people are given knowledge, awareness and the opportunity to recognise their own potential, they can make positive choices and contribute meaningfully to their communities.

The knowledge I have received will not remain with me. I am committed to sharing it with others and using it to strengthen my ministry among young people in prison.

By, Mr. Bernard Opiyo,

Chaplain, Siaya GK Main Prison,

Kenya Prison Service, Nyanza Region.