Toybox partner Pendekezo Letu (PKL) recently held a special celebration for the children and young people who were involved in creating the latest edition of the Toybox supporter magazine, Street Life.
The event brought together members of the editorial team, many of whom had spent weeks brainstorming ideas, writing stories, taking photographs and shaping the themes that mattered most to them. Seeing the magazine printed and holding their own copy for the first time was a proud moment for everyone involved.
The PKL team also shared many messages of support sent by Toybox supporters after reading the magazine. These words of encouragement meant a great deal to the young creators, reinforcing that their voices and creativity resonate far beyond their own communities.
Pictured above: Njuguna looks at a copy of the magazine. Below: (L) Shantel sees her article in the magazine. (R) Maria receives her certificate of appreciation.
Alongside refreshments and time to unwind, the particpants were given space to reflect on the whole journey: what they learned, what they enjoyed, and how it felt to work together to create something that truly represents their lived experience.
Reflections from the participants
Regina shared how much she gained throughout the process: “I learned photography, safeguarding, drawing and much more.”
For Njuguna, new skills came with new confidence: “I have learnt to communicate with many people and how to interact with them.”
Kuria spoke proudly about seeing himself in print: “I feel so happy seeing myself in the street magazine. You should never be afraid of sharing your story.”
Hussein reflected on the teamwork and unity that shaped the magazine: “I experienced something I have never experienced before and I am very grateful. Strong togetherness is great. I have learned that in unity you can do everything. In unity you come together as a group with each other’s problems. We’ll find the solution.”
Dominic described how their expectations transformed: “I thought it would be something difficult, but when I started learning, it turned out to be fun. I enjoyed it. I want to tell other people, even the boys on the streets, for us to show how street life is.”
More than anything, the celebration highlighted how much the children had invested in the project and how much they took from it. The magazine stands as a result of their effort, teamwork and ideas and this event offered the chance to acknowledge that achievement together.
Pictured below: Hussein and Dominic.
