Episode 6: Celebrating Volta’s First Anniversary

In the early light of dawn, the morning of the 8th of February 2025, members of the VOLTA organization gathered at the base of the Ngong Hills, their spirits as high as the peaks they aimed to conquer. This hike, traversing the seven undulating hills, was more than a physical challenge; it was a celebration of VOLTA's first anniversary- a testament to a year dedicated to empowering youth and communities through education and mentorship.

The Ngong Hills, located southwest of Nairobi, are known for their breathtaking views of the Great Rift Valley to the west and the Nairobi skyline to the east. The trail, stretching approximately 12 kilometres from Ngong town to Kona Baridi, offered us a blend of natural beauty and invigorating challenge.

The Ngong Hills: A Landscape of Legacy

Named “knuckles” in Maasai for their rugged peaks, these hills embody endurance—a fitting parallel for Volta’s work. Just as the hills have borne witness to generations of stories, Volta confronts societal challenges head-on, fostering growth through education. “We come together because it is good for kinsmen to do so,” wrote Chinua Achebe in Things Fall Apart. This ethos drives Volta’s community-centric approach, bridging gaps in health, education, and equity.

Social Responsibility – “To Be a Light in the Darkness”

As we ascended the first hill, the hikers were greeted by the sight of towering wind turbines, their blades slicing through the air with rhythmic precision. These turbines, symbols of sustainable energy, mirrored VOLTA's mission to harness the potential of young minds for a brighter future. The organization's commitment to "educating and mentoring young minds on real-world events" was evident in the diverse group of participants, each bringing unique experiences and aspirations to the fold. Social responsibility—the bedrock of SPACE—is reflected in school workshops on reproductive health, disease prevention, and mental wellness. Zulekah Haniff, our CEO shared how a peer’s teenage pregnancy ignited her resolve to join Volta: “We teach girls to reclaim their futures.” Echoing Achebe’s wisdom, she added, “Alone, we stumble. Together, we climb.”

Passion – “The Fire That Fuels Change”

The second hill’s steeper terrain tested resolve, mirroring the tenacity required to sustain passion. Wole Soyinka once declared, “The greatest threat to freedom is the absence of criticism.” Volta channels this fire into advocacy, challenging societal norms through education. Salome, a youth mentor recounted hosting debates on gender equity: “Passion isn’t just enthusiasm—it’s refusing to accept the status quo.”

Small changes that create a big impact

At the summit of the third hill, the group paused to absorb the panoramic views. The sprawling landscapes served as a metaphor for the boundless opportunities that education can unlock. Here, they held a brief session where members shared diverse views on different things going on in the world. These narratives underscored the organization's goal: to make "small changes that create a big impact."

Getting to the peak

The hike culminated at Kona Baridi, where the cool winds served as a refreshing reward for our efforts. Gathered in a circle, the team reflected on the day's journey and the parallels to VOLTA's mission. The unity and camaraderie experienced on the trail reinforced the belief that collective effort is essential for meaningful change. The satisfaction of completing the challenge parallels with the satisfaction that comes with doing good, which is at the core of founding VOLTA.

Conclusion

In celebrating this milestone, VOLTA not only honoured its achievements but also reaffirmed its commitment to the path ahead. The hike through the seven Ngong Hills stands as a metaphor for the organization's journey—challenging yet rewarding, with each peak representing a triumph over adversity. As they look to the future, the words of Achebe serve as a guiding light: "The sun will shine on those who stand before it shines on those who kneel under them." With unwavering dedication, VOLTA continues to stand tall, illuminating the path for the youth they serve.