I met Madam Winnie during my last visit to Madago. She was my partner for all the sexual health workshops and, to be honest, I couldn’t have chosen anyone better. We immediately clicked, her warm smile and gentle voice show kindness. And her attitude shows she knows what she wants from life. What a combination of self-awareness and empathy! In life you truly meet people who touch your heart, and Madam Winnie is definitely one of them.

Tell us your story. Who are you?

My name is Winnie Mwangangi. I’m originally a Kenyan, a native of Kitui County and currently living and working in Kwale and Mombasa counties respectively. I am a Christian lady aged 45 years, married and a mother of three.  I pursued my education in Murang’a  Teacher Training College  where I studied teaching . After graduating I started teaching as a primary school teacher. Over the years, I have had the opportunity to mentor the lives of many learners.

Outside work, I’m passionate in business. I spend many of my weekends and holidays overseeing my business. This helps me stay balanced and bring joy to my life.

What are the values that guide you through life?

I am guided by respect, honesty, integrity and hard work. I acquired these values from my late parents. These not only shape my daily actions but also influence my long-term goals.

What is your relationship with Madago Primary School?

I am a teacher in Madago Primary School, involved in curriculum implementation and apart from that, I guide and counsel learners, educate and sensitize them on children rights among other responsibilities.

Why do you think education is important?

Education is a fundamental pillar of individual and societal wellbeing. I believe it empowers people to realize their potential, contributes to economic and social stability and fosters a more informed and changed world.

It is also a powerful tool for empowerment especially for marginalized and disadvantaged groups.

It provides means to break the cycle of poverty, improve the quality of life and achieve equality.

Educated people are more likely to advocate for their rights and the rights of others.

What is your understanding of equal opportunities for girls, and how do you think this can be achieved?

My understanding for the above-mentioned is that it involves ensuring that girls have the same chances as boys to access education, health care, employment and other resources and opportunities.

The concept can be realized by seeking gender equity, which eliminates discrimination and bias based on gender.

What is the relationship between education and health, from your perspective?

Education plays a significant in role in determining an individual’s health outcome, while good health can enhance educational attainment.

Education improves health literacy enabling individuals to understand health information, make informed choices and navigate health care systems.

Educated individuals, particularly women are more likely to have control over health-related decisions including family planning and the use of health care services.

Do you think that sexual health education is important for the learners of Madago Primary School? How has YOUng Steps Kenya contributed to awareness raising on this topic?

Sexual health education is very important for the learners of Madago Primary School because it has provided them with the knowledge, skills and attitudes necessary to make informed decisions about their sexual health relationships.

YOUng Steps Kenya has helped the learners to understand themselves, their bodies, sexual development, dos and don’ts and also the expected outcomes in case one gets involved.

By educating the learners about safe sex practices such as use of condoms, sexual education will help reduce the risk of STIs and unintended pregnancies.

How would a school clinic benefit the learners and the community in general?

There will be numerous benefits. To the learners:

a) immediate medical care

b) preventive health services 

c) mental health care

d) health education 

e) confidential care.

f) reduced absenteeism

To the community: 

a) improved public health 

b) reduced health care costs

c) increased school enrollment 

d) support for families 

e) community health awareness 

What life advice would you pass on to children and grown-ups?

To children: be curious and keep on learning, treat others with kindness, set goals and pursue them, work smart and work hard, be yourself, make informed choices, ask for help when needed, be grateful and sensitive 

To adults: pursue your passion, balance work and life, embrace education and be ready to support your children as they go on through life, embrace change and continue learning, be role models to your children, health is wealth 

NB: Education and health are key aspects both should embrace.