Brenda

Brenda, 13, is an eighth grader at Kangemi Primary School in Kenya. Brenda is a member of the school’s health club, which students learn about water, sanitation and personal hygiene. The club also raises awareness for these causes through drama and literature. Brenda’s leadership qualities and heart of servitude has inspired her to be an air hostess. “People ask me ‘why not do bigger things with your life?’ and I tell them but that is what makes me happy,” Brenda said. “And that’s what I want to become.”

Curator’s note: The following is an excerpt of Brenda as told to WaterAid staff on October 17, 2016.

At 13 years of age, her confidence is nearly shocking, her smile infectious.

Q: So Brenda, you are a member of the health club right?
A: A SENIOR member, yes.

She made sure I got the senior part. That’s leadership right there.

Q: Oh my apologies, what is the difference?
A: So as a senior member, I train other members on how to manage water, sanitation and also their own personal hygiene including menstrual hygiene management training for girls. I can show you the sanitary napkins if you want. I am also elected as senior teacher of Christian Religious Education. Students regard me highly and respect me the way they would teachers.

The best definition I found for identity is a place in society and Brenda certainly has a really high place amongst her peers and teachers alike. That makes you wonder what is in store for her in the future.

A: I like serving. I like seeing people happy with my service, so I am going to become an air hostess. People ask me “why not do bigger things with your life,” and I tell them but that is what makes me happy. And that’s what I want to become.”

Photo credit: WaterAid/Behailu Shiferaw