On The Ground - July/Aug 2022

Club of Leaders

The months of July and August were dedicated to building trust among the various stakeholders at Hebrone School and in the surrounding community. The baobab tree, planted by Malembe Rise staff and Hebrone School students, is a symbol of sustainability for the CoL. Just like the baobab tree, the club requires care, protection, and nourishment.

Early in the trust building phase, attendance among the students was irregular. While being led in a brainstorming activity about how to involve more children, the students decided to move the meeting day of the CoL and to personally go into the community and invite others to join the club. Attendance has increased to between 30-40 students per meeting.

Over the course of the trust building sessions, the students participated in activities that reinforced the concepts of sustainability, collaboration, making good vs. bad choices, and avoiding Kuluna. The students have been introduced to the five leadership skills: observation, research, analysis, community service, and reflection. These skills will be foundational to the CoL as it moves forward.

The CoL has generated excitement among the community surrounding Hebrone. Pastor Munanga, director of the Free Baptist Churches in Congo, stated “It's wonderful to see children who get used to standing up in front of adults and in whom we arouse curiosity. It is good for the future because such children will no longer be scared and can express themselves in any language.”

Teacher Professional Development

Mr Pombo, Mr Chancard, Mr Kibulu, along with Dr Jerry had their first meeting with 13 of the HPP-Congo teachers. They worked through various activities designed to aid in reflection on the primary education system of Congo and how they can improve the system. All participants were excited about this partnership and look forward to future meetings.