Anne Barangi: Friendship Comes In All Shapes And Sizes -P12
June Gachui: Friendship, The Foundation Of Success – P13
Ask Zawadi: Your Questions Answered – P42 & P43
The Truth About Periods – P45
Products to Manage Your Periods - P46 & P47
Track your Periods - P48 & P49
Artists
Naddya Adhiambo Kennedy Kyalo
Producers Wilma Wamboi
Angela Lagat
Annie Smith
Asha
Emma
YOUR PROMISE
[name]
Welcome To "Nia Teen"!
The Nia Teen magazine is specially created for you! It is more than just a magazine; it is a tool that you can use everyday to become the best you can be. In this Friendship issue, you will meet different people who share their joys and challenges of friendship, discover the type of friend you are, get facts about menstruation and much more. Every page has been designed to help you.
For this first issue, we had amazing girls and women across Kenya work to create the unique content. We want to celebrate how great friendships help all of us grow. You will read about four primary school girls who created great art, and meet both June Gachui and Anne Barangi. They share how surrounding themselves with great people helped them succeed. Friendship is at the heart of this issue.
I am especially excited for you to meet Nia, a young girl just like you, discovering all there is to know about living her life to the fullest.
Nia Teen believes in girls, just like you should believe in yourself. The promise section below is for you to read and sign, if you so choose, because it is a reminder to yourself as to how great you are!
Nothing makes us happier than seeing girls like you live your purpose while having fun! We hope you enjoy this, and all upcoming Nia Teen Magazines!
Your Friend, I,______________________________________ promise to remember my greatness to love life to live life to thrive as friends as girls together.
Live Your Purpose
Anne Moraa, Senior Editor.
DAISY AND ANGELA
BEST FRIENDS IN LOVE
VICTOR AND LOIS
Victor and Lois Yamo, both 48-years-old, have been married for 16 years. They find that friendship is at the core of their love. "Through friendship, you learn unique things about each other that you like and can grow," says Victor.
A marriage as long as this one isn't always easy; they even fought the day before their wedding! It is their friendship that helps them through the rough times. "We realized that even if there are little things that annoy us about each other, there is still something valuable in each of us, and that is what we always seek to find through our friendship," says Lois.
When Angela arrived in Nairobi from her hometown of Kakamega during Class Eight, she did not have any friends. One day, she saw a girl washing clothes outside and knew they would be friends. That girl was Daisy!
Angela started the friendship by saying hello to Daisy every time they crossed paths. They soon became such good friends that they even hoped to go to the same secondary school. Even when they disagree, they put their friendship first. If they do anything to upset each other, "We just talk [immediately] and solve [it] and continue being friends," says Angela.
Their friendship is special because it brings them together in both "times of joy and sorrow," according to Daisy. They know that a friend is someone who knows the song in your heart and can sing it back to you when you have forgotten the words.
By Lynn Seru
Victor says, "As friends, we work hard to stay connected. We spend time together, invest together and even offer advice to other couples."
Parents of three children - Richard, 18, Zawadi, 15 and Baraka, 12 - they have some advice for girls. Victor advises girls to define their own values.
Lois and Victor discussing their friendship - the basis of their long-lasting marriage.
When choosing friends, girls should remember that they have the right to reject those who don't share their values.
"We always let the other person be their true self and we listen to each other," adds Lois.
By Faith Oneya
Angela (18 yrs) and Daisy (16 yrs) hugging each other.
MJ & VIN
Even though boys and girls are often only seen as romantic partners, Vincent and Mwanajuma are great friends. What is their secret?
Since they met in high school, they have always been there for each other. They have stayed friends for over three years because of how honest and respectful they are with each other.
EMMA AND DORCAS
FRIENDS TO THE END GROWING TOGETHER
When asked how they do it, Mwanajuma says, "Boundaries," with Vincent agreeing. Vincent and Mwanajuma have set clear boundaries in their relationship and they respect each other's rules and limits.
As Vincent says, "No one is an island. Friends are like the water surrounding an island and we need them."
By Lynn Seru
Emma believes, to be a mentor, "The important thing is to avoid being judgemental, [keeping] confidentiality and respecting their opinion."
By Mwikali M
Emma is mentoring Dorcas because she believes that, "We all have potential within us but [sometimes] we need someone to trigger it." She saw something special in Dorcas, who was always smiling and feeding her curiosity through questions. Emma believed that she could be the one to support Dorcas in realizing her greatness.
Emma is a counselor with Fountain Youth Initiative (FYI), a project in Githurai, Nairobi, that seeks to empower young people. "When Emma joined us to give us pads, she was free with us," says Dorcas. Emma works to make sure Dorcas has the tools she needs to succeed.
Dorcas loves their relationship because she feels Emma is understanding, stating, "She teaches us things we didn't know." If Emma doesn't know the answer immediately, Dorcas points out how Emma, "She will go and do research, then come back and tell us." They learn from each otherDorcas challenges Emma with tough questions, and Emma is always ready to give answers.
MJ (16 yrs) and Vin (17 yrs) enjoying each other's company.
Dorcas (16 yrs) and Emma (26 yrs) spending time together.
JOY (SHANGWE)
ANGER (HASIRA)
SADNESS (HUZUNI)
EXCITEMENT (SISIMUKO)
EMBARRASEMENT (KUAIBIKA)
FEAR (HOFU)
ANXIETY (HANGAIKO)
boredom (Uchovu (Kuboeka)
REAL TALK: FEELINGS
This is the emotion So you can feel
The meaning of this feeling is For example
A strong feeling of pleasure or contentment
A strong feeling of being upset or annoyed, often because of something you think/feel is hurtful or unfair
Feeling sorrow or unhappiness.
Feeling very enthusiastic and eager for something that will soon happen
Feeling foolish in front of others because of something that you said or did, or was said or done to you
Feeling worried that something undesirable will happen.
A feeling of worry, nervousness, or unease, typically about an imminent event or an uncertain outcome.
Feeling weary because one is unoccupied or lacks interest in one's current activity.
TO BULLY OR NOT TO BULLY
LEARNING FROM EXPERIENCE
Nelson, 18 yrs, Kibera BULLIED
Nelson was bullied by both his classmates and his sisters! From being made to wash other people's boxers in Form One, to his sisters forcing him to do chores their parents gave them. He has grown and become stronger from those experiences. He learned how to stand up for himself. Later, he became a prefect in school and spoke to both his parents and his sisters about the sisters' behavior.
Q: How did you feel when you were bullied?
A. I just felt…it's something that makes you feel bad.
Q. What did you learn when you were bullied?
A. I learned a lot. When someone is bullying you, it feels like they won't stop. Bullying isn't a nice thing to do.
Q. What advice do you have for girls and boys that bully others?
A. People should stop bullying others. These things should stop. You know, bullying isn't good because the person you are bullying gets hurt. You should know they are a person just like you. Bullying hurts others and brings conflict. It really lowers your self-esteem.
Hashim used to bully other boys, and people in his community, when he was younger. He took advantage of his tough reputation, even making others wash his clothes! He has since learned how wrong bullying is. Since he stopped bullying others, he has spent more time discovering himself and his talents, including his gift for rugby,
Q. How did it feel to be a bully?
A. At times, I felt good but sometimes, you feel that guilt. [Overall], it didn't feel good to bully someone.
Q. How did you stop bullying?
A. There is a day we went for a 'funkie'…no one wanted to chill with me so it got to a point where I felt very lonely. This is what made me begin to stop bullying.
Q. What change did you notice after you stopped bullying?
A. First, I had many friends and I knew who I was. [When I stopped] is when I found out I have a talent playing rugby. Someone I used to bully actually told me to go for a game with him so that I could see how the game is played. So then I tried it out, and here we are.
Q. What advice can you give bullies?
A. What I'd say to bullies is think, just think, how you would feel if the same was done to you. You'd feel terrible. So, once you realize that, just come back to your senses and do the right thing.
EXPERT OPINION
By Immaculate Wandera
Dr. Carolyne Chakua is a practicing Child and Family Psychologist.
Bullying is repeated, unwanted aggressive behavior among school children.
The best [approach] for bullying is to stand up against it. A responsible way of dealing with a bully is to speak with them and let them know it is not cool. Any behavior that is not encouraged cannot be sustained. When you don't give bullies an audience, the bullying behavior will eventually stop.
BULLY
Hashim, 18 Years, Makina
"When I was in class 5, there was a day I woke up and when I went to wash my face, it didn't feel normal. I went to check myself on the mirror and saw my face was filled with big pimples. When I went to school, all pupils were looking at me.
When I got home from school, I tried to use my mother's lotion hoping they will disappear. The following day before I left for school, I used my mum's lotion again. When I got to school my fellow pupil asked, 'Kwani, these days you apply ladies' lotion?' I told them no. He asked what was going on and I told him I'm trying to get rid of the pimples. He went and told the rest of the boys in my class and everyone was laughing at me as I entered the class. That was the most embarrassing moment in my life."
EMBARRASSING
We all have moments in our lives that were really embarrassing in the past, and we can now laugh at. Read other people's embarrassing moments below!
"I will never forget, in class 6, when I went to the toilet and found that my periods had started. There was nothing I could do. Waa, I was scared because I hadn't imagined menstruating at any time, and I didn't have a sanitary towel. I wasn't prepared. I went to my teacher and asked her to assist me with pads but she let me down and told me she didn't have any. I had to go back to class because it was around 2pm. I sat down and after sometime I could feel my period flowing.
I had to remove my sweater and use it to cover myself. When I was going home 1.5 km from school, everyone was looking at me. What went through my mind was, everyone was looking at me saying, " Ghai! It's like this girl hast started her periods." I wanted to get home as quickly as possible. Can you imagine not wearing anything, stranded, and all eyes on you! Waa, Ngori."
Magdaline, 22 yrs
Christopher, 18 yrs
MOMENTS
"In class 4, I woke up one morning and found that my bed was wet.
I went and asked my big brother what was going on and he told me that I was experiencing an adolescent moment called a wet dream.
He really laughed at me because of my reaction but I had to accept the changes that were happening to me. I felt really embarrassed."
Mike, 15 yrs
"When I joined high school, everyone had started their periods except me. I didn't feel like a girl because everyone was talking about period-related issues like cramps and I wondered why I was not experiencing the same. When I joined form 2, my periods didn't come and I really wondered what was wrong with me. The situation continued throughout Form 3. It got to a point I would cry and ask, 'Kwani, what's my problem?'
In second term of Form 4, I finally started menstruating. I felt embarrassed when I learned that it's normal for some girls to start their periods later than other girls."
Martha, 19 yrs
What Type Of Friend Are You ?
When my friends argue, I am the first to step in.
I always speak my mind.
There is always more than one side to every story. People say I talk a lot.
I am often the leader in any kind of teamwork. People say I am a ‘know-it-all
Facts are more important than feelings
Sometimes I act before I think about the consequences.
I don't usually have the answer to problems.
CONFIDENCE
You are confident like a sunflower. Always ready to stand up for yourself and others. People listen to you and follow your example.
You may not always think carefully before you act.
Think about how your actions impact others before you do them.
Stand up for others: When you see someone being bullied, your confidence means you can speak up to defend them. Lead by example
WISDOM
A great thinker. Best at solving problems and seeking solutions. People turn to you when they don’t know how to solve a problem.
You are often focused on your own thoughts. It can be hard for you to admit when you are wrong. .
HOW YOU CAN GROW
EMPATHY
A natural listener. Deeply caring and understanding of everyone’s emotions. Everyone turns to you when they need a shoulder to cry on.
You can spend all your energy on others, without taking care of yourself.
Be ready to take responsibility for your mistakes. Don’t be afraid to speak up for yourself.
See both sides: Your smarts can help each side of an argument understand the other. You can help people find a fair solution.
Keep it calm: You catch details that others miss. Your empathy means you can help someone calm down when upset, just by being there.
LET’S MAKE A FRIENDSHIP BRACELET GET
Cut or tear three long strips from a paper bag or paper bags.
TIP: They should be about the same length as your wrist to your elbow.
Once your strips are ready, gather the strips and tie a knot on one end.
TIP: You can experiment with more than three strips or use two strips to make twists.
TIP: You can tie the ends in form of a knot or use another small strip to make a closed loop. 1 3 5 2 4
Start braiding the strips, starting from the knotted end towards the open ends of the strips.
TIP: It is much easier to braid if your friend holds the knotted end of the strips.
When you complete your braid, take both ends of the braid and tie them together to form a bracelet that fits you or your friend's wrist.
Your friendship bracelet is complete!
TIP: Make bracelets for each other. This is a great way to celebrate friendships!
Anne is a friend who inspires girls and women of all ages.
Anne Barangi embodies the Girl Guide spirit: A Guide is a friend to all and a sister to all Guides.
FRIENDSHIP ACROSS THE AGES
The girls at the Kimalel Campsite all call Anne 'Gogo' (grandmother). When asked why, one girl said, "She is like a grandmother to us." Chumba, who works closely with Anne at the campsite adds, "She took me in when life was difficult. She is like a second mother to me."
As a guide, all girls are equal, young or old, rich or poor! The Kenya Girl Guides Association is part of an international organization for girls of all ages. There are several stages in Girl-Guiding, from younger Brownies and Girl Guides to the Senior Section of Rangers and the Trefoil Guild. Anne, the chairperson of the Kenya Trefoil Guild, has never forgotten why she wanted to be a guide.
During her teaching practice in 1972, Anne attended a Girl Guide Training workshop. There, she met fellow teachers. "[They] were very friendly and treated me kindly despite our ethnic differences. We were sisters." It was then that she knew she wanted to be a Guide for the rest of her life.
The girls love spending time each week learning about friendship, life-skills, camping, arts and crafts and connecting with others. They walk long distances every week for the chance to be together and have fun. As Anne says, "If it's not fun, it's not guiding!"
Anne has visited London, Australia and the U.S., and made friends all over the world because of her work. She proudly says, "All my success and achievements have been through having friends from all over the world and across all ages."
As a guide, all girls are equal, young or old, rich or poor!
By Emma Kay
ANNE BARANGI
Anne Barangi at Kimalel Campsite, Kabarnet.
June Gachui is a celebrity. She is a recognized musician, comedienne and actress! People come from all over to watch her plays and she has even been on TV! She is also a fantastic lawyer, who helps other artists because of her success.
FRIENDSHIP: THE FOUNDATION OF SUCCESS JUNE GACHUI
Tips For Success From June
1. "You have to strive to excel. You don't excel the first time you try."
2. "Take advantage of [your] youth to try anything, to experience everything."
3. "It's just time management."
Manage your time well and use it constructively to achieve your goals.
4. "You also need that time to just take a break. You should enjoy life also, right?"
Everyone needs time of to relax and celebrate their success!
June is both a lawyer and performer. You too can do more than one thing, if you set your mind to it!
The biggest secret to her success is surrounding herself with motivated people who want to see her succeed, especially women.
Her band, The Flower Project, is making huge waves in music and her law firm has strong young women she trains to become successful themselves. Working with other women has helped June Gachui shine! She does so much because she surrounds herself with supportive people, which "made it easy to still do school and have the music as a continued passion."
June has had many failures in her past, from shows with no one attending, to struggling with Maths in school. She took all these as lessons and hence challenged herself to do better, looking for people who could help her grow. "Failure is a good thing because it then helps you get better."
She believes in girl power. "I always tell [girls] that they can do anything," and she is proof!
By Mwikali M
June Gachui is a star lawyer, musician and a whole lot more!
The Flower Project: The band that helps June Gachui shine.
‘Respect yourself and others will respect you. ’ - Confucius.
Eatright,exerciseand loveyourbodythewayitis.
BODY
Be kind to yourself. Everyone makes mistakes.
Use a rubbish bin to dispose of things like paper bags and sanitary pads
AVOID LITTERING
SOUL
Surround yourself with people whotruly respect you.
Be open to learning. Explore and build your natural talent.
MIND
RESPECT.
Take you the way you are.
Give you the chance to express yourself.
Support you at your weakest.
BeRespected YOURSELF YOU DESERVE
THE WORLD ‘ It’ s the little things that will make the difference.’ –Wangari Maathai.
Take care of your possessions.
Keep your environment clean.
When others respect you, they... Kuheshimu hakumaanishi kutii maagizo tu.
humanSupportyour rights.
You deserve respect just as much as those around you.
RESPECT
‘To give due regard for the feelings, wishes, rights and traditions of others.’
Why?
Honor your boundaries
To consider other people’ s feelings and opinions.
To show friendship.
Because everyone deserves respect.
Respect Respecting each other
To build healthy relationships.
OTHER PEOPLE
Respect isn’t just about following orders.
Show others respect by treating them with care and consideration.
Saying ‘Thank you!’ Taking responsibility for your mistakes.
Obeying your elders.
You can also show respect by:
Being fair to other ’s opinions.
Being polite.
Speaking up for others.
Wa! Yani tuko 2nd term!?
Najua utakuwa na furaha sana kuona rafiki wako… anaituaje?... Eliza?
eh... Nataka kuona mabeshte zangu Wote!
ndio! kitambo, watu wengi walifikiria wasichana hawakufaa kuenda shule. SIKUPATA NAFASI ya KUMALIZA MASOMO YANGU. hio haifai! Haki thanks Nana!
unajua mi sikumaliza hata standard six? ati?
ninafuraha sana unaenda form 1! ni poa vile unapenda shule! kila msichana anafaa kuenda shule!
basi, mbona ulitolewa shule?
ndio nilihakikisha dadako na wewe mulienda shule!
lakini leo ninajuA hedhi haifai kusimamisha masomo!
heh! Kweli, kazi ni kanzi!
nilitolewa shule wakati nilianza kupata hedhi.
...na university!?
tena ukimaliza secondary...
Lakini ulienda prima?
NDIO! MPAKA CLASS 6. NILIPENDA SHULE NA MASOMO SANA.
ukimaliza primary unapata fursa nyingi maishani
heh, umeshaamka?
Hata sijalala! Nime shinda nikiwaza about vitu nawant kufanya shule
nitacheza bake! lazima tutashinda the boys team this term
haha! kuja tukunywe chai basi... .
nitabonga na mabeshte zangu... na nitasoma kwa bidii...
zawadi!
uko-ready? almost!
unafanya nini nyumbani
ready!
na-wish maThe angekuwa hapa, amuone..
ananikumbusha vile we ulikuwa ukiwa msichana
Si amini venye Nia amegrow...
Siste! Nimetoka works nikaona niwapitie kiasi
nana...chukua hii kidogo.. itakusaidia na bills ah, apana zawadi.. nana, sijifanyii job. nina hustle ndio nisaidie wewe na nia!
Ah Nia, hauwezi force mtu aku-like. we jipende na utreat watu wengine na respect
Si kila mtu ataku-like lakini...
sijui...
Mom alikuita Nia juu alijua uko na purpose kwa hii life. Na afterall, penye Nia kuna njia
Hauwezi jua ka hauja-try kuona vitu from side yake. Ni normal mtu kuwa msensitive
sikumfanyia kitu!
Na kama hata niforgive?
Nana alinigei nikiwa age yako nini?
Nia, nitakugei the same advice
Come to think of it… umejaribu kucheki hii storo from her side?
Ehe… lakini na m’miss
Kusaidia Toma ilikuwa kitu poa, lakini pengine ulikosea Eliza pia. Kitu unafaa ku-do ni kuwa responsible for your actions.
Ah! Ni poa mtu kutembea na mabeshte akienda chuo Na anyway, niko na meeting flani tu saa hii
Haha! Najua mko na storo mob! Nita waacha m’bonge. Toma please promise utahelp Nia kusoma histo Sawa sis. Thanks sana. bye! Na sindio?!
Thanks sana sis!
Si amust tutembee pamoja...
Nilifunzwa kupaka henna.
zainab alikuwa malaika sana! aki, hajawai furahia hivyo!
graduation ya zainab ilienda aje? holiday yako ilikuwa poa?
nilisaidia zawadi na fashion yake
niliji-enjoy!
lakini mostly nili-spend time na famo
Designs zake ziko poa sana!
independence!”
“kutoka
Heh, so ati Toma alinunua skirt mpya?
Yani anadhani tumesahau kenye ilihappen
teacha! Kenya ilipata uhuru 1963!
kenya ilipata uhuru mwaka gani? nani ataandika jibu? narudi saa hii!
Wa! Oneni venye Toma amenyesha kutoka independence!
Hata wewe umewahi nyesha! Badala ya kumtusi si umhelp venye nilikuhelp!
eliza, wachana na toma!
Ni ukweli, lakini usisahau venye siku ilienda…
nini kinaendelea?
shika sweater yangu Haki thanks
Usijali Toma. Ntakuhelp
ummm..mwalimu...ninahitaji usaidizi. niko na...shida. nilijua kuna kitu mbaya! lazima nikusaidie. ni nini toma?
mbona, mmebaki darasani?
Unawant kushow Mrs. Mbatia?
baadaye...
soma ukurusa ufuatao kujua mambo kuhusu hedhi na baleghe!
asante mrs. mbatia! haiya sitaki wewe au nia, au msichana yeyote ashtuke wakati hedhi ikiaanza.
toma, ni vizuri sana ulinieleza hedhi yako iliaanza darasani. kama haungeniambia, singeweza kukusaidia.
How will I know my period is about to start?
Your body starts puberty, and menstruation, at a time that’s right for your body. Girls start as early as 8 years of age and others later in life at 19 years!
Many girls get their first period about 2 years after their breasts start to develop. Between 6 months to a year before your first period, you may notice a white or clear fluid coming from your vagina every now and then. Egg begins to ripen inside the ovaries. Uterine lining begins to thicken in preparation for the egg.
Wow! When does this all start?
Yes! Small microscopic eggs that you are born with. They stay unripe in your ovaries until puberty starts. One ovary releases one egg during each menstrual cycle. Follow the egg from ovulation to menstruation in the diagram of the menstrual cycle here!
Wait, girls have eggs?
Both boys and girls go through PUBERTY, a phase in life when their bodies start to mature and change.
A 5 6 DY 7 8 9 10 11 1 13
The uterine lining continues to thicken in case you become pregnant.
FALLOPIAN TUBE
If you do not get pregnant, the egg begins to break down.
My period comes around every 3 weeks. The cycle says 28. Is something wrong with me?!
the ‘28 days’ is average for most women. Don’t worry if your cycle is a little different.
Some girls menstruate every 21 days, others 35 days, and everything in between! Once your periods come, they can last from 3-7 days. The range is perfectly normal!
What if my period doesn’t come?
If you are older than 17 and your periods haven’t started, visit a clinic or doctor to get more information.
Once your periods have started, it is common to have irregular periods during your teens. This means it’s hard to predict when they will come or how long they will last.
The uterine lining starts to break down. This leads to your periods.
If you have had sex and, afterwards, you don’t get your period for two months in a row, you should visit a doctor to check if you are pregnant.
What is it like to have periods?
Can I do anything to stop period pain?
Exercising regularly and eating healthy throughout the month can help reduce pain during your periods.
If you have stomach cramps or back pain, placing a warm (not hot!) cloth, towel or item can help relax the area. You can also try taking a simple pain killer, such as paracetamol.
Yes. This happens during Menopause, which is when menstruation stops. this happens typically between the ages of 45-55. After menopause, you are no longer able to get pregnant. 15 16 17 18 19 0 23 24 25 26 27 28 22 DAY 21 2
If you have unbearable pain during your periods, try seeing a nurse or doctor for help.
Do you ever stop getting your periods?
Some feel perfectly fine; others experience fatigue, stomach cramps, headaches, or back pain during or right before their periods. These are all normal. This is different for every girl!
Wewe ni beste wangu na nataka ukuwe happy
Nia, I think unafaa kubonga na Eliza
Najua alinitusi lakini mulikuwa mabeshte since primo
Usipo m-bongesha, hauta wahi kuwa happy
Ala? mbona?
unataka?
sasa eliza.
Enda tu utry . Niko hapa incase una nineed
nataka tuongee.. peke yetu
Haki thanks!
yakutosha last term...
ati anataka kukuongelesha?
kwani anaona ye ni nani?
Alisema
So kuhelp Toma ilibidi unianike? Mimi singe kufanyia hivyo. In short ulichoose Toma badala ya mimi!!
Sikuwant kukuhurt.
Ni wewe ulitusi Toma so mi nilireact nikitry kumhelp
apana!
Wewe ndio ulianza hii story! Wewe ndio ulinihurt
Sijui nili-do nini ndio sikuhizi hatubongi ...ngoja. mimi sikuongeleshi?
Nilidhani tuko mabeshte lakini ulinianika mbele ya daro yote kuhusu accident yangu!
haya..basi nakumiss eliza... bado nakumbuka tukiwa mabeshte primo. siku hizi, hata hatuongei!
Haki si hivyo! Haikuwa ni story ya kuchoose Toma ama wewe.
Mi nilikuwa na mhelp tu lakini venye sasa najua nilikuhurt, pole basi. Si tunaeza kuwa mabeshte tena?
Haki pole Eliza.
Nia, ulinihurt sana. Hatuezi kuwa mabeshte kama hauchoose kati ya mimi na Toma
Sema Nia? Uko sawa? Amekataa kuniforgive
Sema Nia? Uko sawa? Amekataa kuniforgive
Usijali, ulido poa kutry kumbongesha. Maybe ananeed time ya kuthink… pengine..
Usijali, ulido poa kutry kumbongesha. Maybe ananeed time ya kuthink… pengine..
eee eliza, usikuwe msoft hivo.
eee eliza, usikuwe msoft hivo.
Ah! Eliza, mi siezi kudoia hivyo
wachana na yeye!
Ah! Eliza, mi siezi kudoia hivyo
Eish! Ati pole? Eliza utaacha akubebe hivyo?
Eish! Ati pole? Eliza utaacha akubebe hivyo?
Haki Eliza… hata wewe unajua siezi choose wachana na yeye!
Zi Nia!, hapa mi naona usha choose
Zi Nia!, hapa mi naona usha choose
Haki Eliza… hata wewe unajua siezi choose
yo nia! toma! simameni hapa!
umetry kusort hii drama. Anyone would be lucky kuwa beshte yako!
najua ilikuwa-hard kumuongelesha!
i’m so proud of you! Aki napenda venye
LET’S TALK NIA
What did you think about Nia's story? Use the questions below as a guide!
Group Chat
Discuss the questions below with a friend or a group of friends. The rules:
Talk through each question one by one.
Everyone gets a turn.
Be kind and fair.
Be honest!
1. Who is your favorite character in the comic and why?
2. All stories have multiple sides. Imagine the story from Eliza's point of view.
Haki pole Eliza.
Haki si hivyo! Haikuwa ni story ya kuchoose Toma ama wewe. Mi nilikuwa na mhelp tu lakini venye sasa najua nilikuhurt, pole basi. Si tunaeza kuwa mabeshte tena?
Why do you think Eliza was upset? What could Nia have done to prevent this? What could Eliza have done to avoid Nia getting upset?
3. Now that Eliza and Nia have spoken with each other, what do you think they should do next?
4. Nia and Toma are best friends because they help each other, learn from each other, and enjoy being around each other! What ways can girls support and celebrate each other?
5. Can you decide as a group at least one way you will help each other over the next three months?
Your thoughts
These questions are for you to think about in your own time.
1. Have you ever teased a classmate? If so, what effect do you think that had on them?
2. If you could go back in time, would you do anything differently?
3. Have you ever been upset by a friend, like how Nia and Eliza upset each other?
4. How did you handle that situation? How did it turn out?
5. Would you handle it differently today? How?
HOW TO MANAGE YOUR TIME
Study Groups
Working in teams is an essential part of life, be it at work, in school, in sports, or even for fun. Use the power of friendship to learn how to work in teams and help yourselves grow!
a. It should be between 3-5 members.
b. Be committed. Be on time and ready to work!
STEP 1: Form a group
c. Take turns being group leader. At each meeting, make sure the group meets its goals.
STEP 2: Shape the group
a. What is the key subject you all want to work on?
b. How long should each session be? Who is the group leader in each session?
c. Spend the first few minutes reviewing last week's questions, and the last few planning for the next week!
d. Remember to always plan a little time for fun!
STEP 3: Work the group
a. Decide what you want to discuss. It could be a hard subject you struggle with or something that you all want to prepare for.
b. Pick one or two of the toughest things you struggle with prior to the group meeting.
c. Discuss it! Learn from each other and take turns presenting your ideas.
d. If you all can't agree, that's okay! It means you have found a tricky area and you are challenging each other to learn. Ask a teacher to help you answer it!
TIP
This group work technique is great for doing any work, in or out of school! Working together is a great way to get ahead!
IT’S NEVER THAT SERIOUS
Salma, 23 years, was raised in Jericho, a slum area in Nairobi. "I was calling myself 'know-all' [because] I used to think that I know everything."
Throughout her adolescence, Salma encountered and interacted with people that didn't share her values. "We were doing crazy stuff like clubbing, fighting. Some of them even introduced me to some drugs," says Salma. As a result of drug use, she felt like she owned the world and ended up paying less attention in school. "We used to hang out in more than three clubs a night!"
Salma realized in Form Four she was wasting a lot of time because she wasn't focused on her future. She wanted to change, saying, "If you asked me what do you want to do with your life back then, I couldn't have told you, but now I can even write you a paragraph."
She chose to stop hanging around people who weren't helping her accomplish her goals. "I started committing myself to my books and I realized I had potential to become successful."
Now working toward her future, she has learnt that, "The most important thing is to know your stand, no matter the situation, no matter the challenge."
By Asha Jafar
Zeinab and Harun are not just siblings but great friends! They love each other but admit to having a little sibling rivalry.
Harun, the younger brother, likes watching cartoons on television but Zeinab prefers more mature TV shows. In January, they clashed when they wanted to watch different TV shows at the same time. Whenever Zeinab selected her program, Harun would change channels. Whenever he asked to watch his program and she refused, he would switch off the TV completely and run away!
They both wanted the arguments to stop so they came up with a fair solution that works for both of them: They would take turns watching TV. "She watches during the day, me I watch at night," says Zeinab, and they haven't had a disagreement about it for the last 6 months.
They advise other siblings to talk over their arguments, and if they can't solve it, ask someone senior like a parent or elder sibling to help.
BY Lynn Seru
CHOOSING YOURSELF
jovial and confident Salma after finding friends who share her values.
Zeinab (15 yrs) and Harun (11 yrs) are happier after resolving the conflict. A
AT THE CROSSROADS
LETTING GO
KNOWING WHAT COUNTS
Darline, a 16-year-old from Webuye County, quickly made friends when she went to boarding school for the first time at age 11. They seemed nice but were too possessive. They even threatened to kick her out of their group if she made friends with other girls!
One day, she went for a Maths competition with a different group. When she was away, They messed up my things, messed up the bed and removed my box from where it usually is." She found all her things destroyed.
They kept harassing her, "Untill my self-esteem went low" causing her grades to suffer.
Darline realized that, "They had that mentality that if you are their friend, you don't associate with other people." She decided that she didn't want friends who didn't want the best for her. She got help from a teacher, who stepped in and told them to stop.
Now succeeding in High school, she has been careful in choosing her friends. She was strong enough to make the choice to find new friends and has been happier since. She advises other students to, "Work hard and choose friends whom they truly know and can have time for them."
By Emma Kay
Hendricah and Immaculate have been close friends since they joined high school. Hendricah loves that Immaculate is a great listener while Immaculate loves Hendricah's open-minded nature.
Their great friendship almost came to an end two years ago because they were not honest with each other. Hendricah's boyfriend at the time asked Immaculate out on dates. Immaculate said no, but didn't want to hurt her friend. She began talking less with Hendricah to avoid telling her the truth. Hendricah found out about it and was upset that her good friend didn't tell her the truth.
They were both too shy and upset to speak to each other honestly. They tried asking for help from Hendricah's older sister and even their pastor. Finally, they realized the problem was not even about the boy: it was about honesty.
The girls apologized to each other for not telling the truth right from the start. It takes time to rebuild a friendship because, "When one has a wound it takes some weeks before it heals," says Hendricah. It is because they care about each other so much that they are working hard to rebuild their friendship to what it once was.
Immaculate says, "In friendship, you need to be there for one another. Communication is basic in friendship." Hendricah adds, "Whatever conflict happens in a friendship, you should handle it immediately otherwise, it will keep hurting you over time."
By Lynn Seru
Darline (16 yrs) recalls her experience of being bullied.
Hendricah (21 yrs) and Immaculate (19 yrs) say their friendship is anchored in honesty.
RELATIONSHIP MAP
It is important to know who to go to when you have question about anything! You may want to know about, for example, your school/ education, your friends, your feelings, your goals and dreams, or you and your growing body, including your periods.
Nia goes to specific people in her life when she has questions! See below who she goes to about each of the topics we mentioned. Use the following page to write down who you go to, or would like to go to, when you have questions about each of the topics listed!
TIP:
When a new character appears in the Nia Comic, you can draw or write them down on this page!
INSTRUCTIONS:
Use this page to write down a list of the people you have in your life.
For example, who do you go to when you have a question or need advice about the subjects listed below?
For each type of question, there may be someone you prefer to go to. That person may be in your school or in a place of worship. It can be a person like your friend or sibling or parent or even neighbors, teachers, and other members of your community.
ME
Write your name or draw yourself here
When adding people to your map, ask yourself:
1) What exactly do I want to know?
2) Do I know the answer?
3) If not, who can I ask that will give me the best information?
Anyone that helps you answer your questions well!
Dear Zawadi,
ASK ZAWADI
Sometimes, I find white stuff in my panty – what is this? Is there something wrong with me?
Thank you so much for your question. You’ll be glad to know there is likely nothing wrong with you!
Discharge - clear or white fluid from the vagina - is a normal part of every woman’ s menstrual cycle.
This is how the vagina cleans itself. It can range from thick to thin depending on what phase of your menstrual cycle you are in (see page 28 to review the different phases of the menstrual cycle).
About halfway between your periods, you may find you have more discharge – this is also normal. If you haven’t yet started your periods, getting discharge indicates that you will likely start your periods within 6 months to a year.
Healthy discharge indicates your reproductive system is healthy. Other types can indicate an infection. Check the table to see what ’ s health or unhealthy!
SIGNS OF HEALTHY DISCHARGE
- Smooth, mucus-like in texture
- Whitish or almost clear
- Has little to no smell
SIGNS INDICATING YOU MAY HAVE AN INFECTION
- Thick or lumpy discharge
- Change in colour (yellow or green)
- Change in smell (especially a strong fish-like odour)
- Any itching, redness or bleeding aside from your normal period
Most infections are not serious and can be easily treated.
These are called RTIs - Reproductive Tract Infections. There are many reasons why girls and women get infections.These include diet, hormones, medication and/or hygiene. Some are spread by sexual intercourse and others develop on their own. If you think you have an RTI, please visit a medical professional to get the help you need, and congratulate yourself for taking care of your body!
Dear Zawadi,
My auntie says now that my periods have started, I can't play with boys. What does she mean?
Girls all over the world get this same advice when their periods start: Don’t play with boys. They are just as confused as you are, so thank you for asking your question!
It is very unlikely that your Auntie means that you can’t play sports. Adults, like your Auntie, are simply trying to protect you. ‘Playing with boys’ often refers to sexual activity.
Biologically, adolescents are going through many changes. In fact, even getting your periods is a sign that you are in puberty—the phase of life when boys’ and girls’ bodies and minds mature in preparation for adulthood. Both boys and girls start to grow emotionally and they can start being attracted to others romantically. Signs of attraction include thinking about someone all of the time, your heart beating fast when they are near and/or wanting to be physically close to them. You may even want to form romantic relationships. These feelings are a normal and healthy part of your growth.
As such, you should take the time to think about what it really means to have sex or be in a romantic relationship.
Your Auntie says, ‘Don’t play with boys’ in order to make you think about the rights and responsibilities of sex and romance.
There are many risks when it comes to sexual activity—the risk of getting emotionally hurt, contracting STDs or HIV, and the risk of getting pregnant.
Girls can get pregnant if they have unprotected sex at any time of the month. It is your responsibility to understand those risks and to protect yourself against them. It is your right to decide if, when and how you want to engage in a relationship with someone.
You have the right to say NO to any sexual activities you don’t want to engage in!
Whether it is your boyfriend or girlfriend pressuring you, or peer pressure from friends, you can say 'no' simply because you’re not ready. If they can’t respect your wishes, then they don’t respect you and you have the right to leave the relationship.
Whatever your culture is, know that the desire for love and companionship— romantic or otherwise—is universal. It is in adolescence that the first steps towards romantic love are taken. What you should do is take the time to understand yourself before acting on your new desires.
TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF
YOUR MIND
ASK QUESTIONS
No one knows everything about everything.
Asking questions about what you don’t know is the first step to expanding your mind!
If you don’t understand a topic or idea, you can:
1: Ask: Get help from someone who knows the subject. Make sure it is someone trustworthy.
2: Read: There is lots of great information in books (like this one!).
3: Grow: Learning happens step by step. You are allowed to make mistakes; that is how people learn.
YOUR BODY
TAKE CARE OF YOUR PRIVATES
Your vagina is a self-cleaning system.
Your body naturally knows how to keep a healthy balance!
All you have to do is take care of it.
To keep your genitals clean:
1) Always wipe from front to back.
2) Wash your hands before and after you touch your privates.
YOUR SOUL FEEL FREE
Don’t be scared of your feelings.
Happy or sad, angry or excited, emotions exist to help you! When feeling a complex emotion, use the following steps:
1: Breath in slowly, counting from one to four.
2: Breathe out slowly, counting from one to eight.
3: Repeat 3 times.
You will instantly feel more relaxed!
When ready, try re-visiting the situation and understanding what led to your emotions and how you can address them.
3) Wash your privates with water only. Harsh soaps or chemicals, like lemon juice or bleach, can disrupt the body’s natural balance. Ideally, you should use warm water.
Friends help you celebrate good times and support you in tough times. Walking together to and from school or when doing chores is not only safer, but also more fun!
When walking together you can:
1) Laugh! Laughter is proven to relieve stress.
2) Discuss hard questions and dream big for your future.
3) Build your relationships. This way you have time for both going places and growing closer!
FACT
THE TRUTH ABOUT PERIODS
A myth is belief that many people have that isn’t true. There are many myths about periods but it’s time to face the facts!
MYTH
Menstrual blood is unclean and dirty!
Menstrual blood is a normal and healthy part of being a girl!
You should be proud of your periods. Many people and cultures can make a girl feel ashamed about her period, but it is how nature allows for women to bear life. It is nothing to be ashamed of.
You shouldn’t eat meat or beans on your period!
FACT
Girls need iron rich foods like beans and meat during their periods!
MYTH
I can't get ifpregnant Ihavesexafter my period.
FACT
Having unprotected sex at any time can make you pregnant!
The risk of getting pregnant from sex is always real, no matter what time of the month it is. Adult women can have days when they are less likely to get pregnant (safe days).
HOWEVER adolescent girls do not. During your teenage years, your body is still developing. your menstrual cycle can suddenly change, so you can’t predict or rely on safe days.
MYTH
Whenagirlstartsher period,thatmeansshe has had sex!
MYTH FACT
Unasisitizwa hasa kula vyakula kama hivi kwa sababu wakati wa hedhi, unapoteza damu yenye madini muhimu. Nyama, maharagwe na mboga ni vyakula vinavyofaa kabisa wakati huo.
MYTH
You shouldn’t cook or play sports on your periods!
anything you can do without your periods you can do with your periods!
Your period isn’t unhealthy or sick. If you feel uncomfortable or have cramps, it is okay to take it easy. However, unless you choose not to do something, the natural flow of menstrual blood should not stop you from cooking, playing sports, going to school or any normal part of your life!
FACT
Periods happen because of puberty NOT sex!
Periods are something almost every girl experiences because of going through puberty. It has nothing to do with whether or not she has had sex. It only indicates that a girl can become pregnant IF she has unprotected sex.
"I prefer them because they are disposable and comfortable."
Lynn Wanjiku, 22 yrs
PRODUCTS TO MANAGE YOUR PERIODS
DISPOSABLE PADS
TAMPONS
Small, tightly rolled cylinders of cotton or other materials
Inserted into the vagina to absorb menstrual flow
Single-use (thrown away after each use)
Changed every four to six hours
Should not be worn overnight
Pads that are thrown away after use
Found at most shops
Made of a soft top-layer of absorbent material and a resistant bottom-layer that sticks to underpants
Changed every four to eight hours
How To Use
1. Take the pad from the package.
2. Open the pad.
3. Remove any strips of paper stuck to the pad.
4. Place the sticky side on your panty. This will keep it in place.
5. If the pad has wings, wrap them around the edge of your panties to prevent leaks.
6. When it's time to change pads, the pad will peel off easily.
7. Fold the used pad in half and wrap it in (tissue) paper.
8. Throw it in the bin!
How To Use Emergency!
If your period catches you by surprise, you can:
a. Ask a friend or trusted adult to get you a product to use.
b. Use clean tissue or cloth for a short time until you can get a product.
1. Wash your hands with soap and water, then dry them.
2. Unwrap one tampon.
3. Gently pull on the string to make sure it is securely attached.
4. Sit or stand in a comfortable position.
5. Hold the tampon, making sure the string is away from your body.
6. Gently push the tampon into the vaginal opening. Make sure you leave the string outside your body.
7. When ready to remove, generally after four to six hours, hold the string and gently pull downward until the tampon comes out.
8. Wrap the tampon in tissue and throw it in the bin.
9. Wash your hands after.
"When I wear tampons, for me, it feels like a normal day" Grace Atati, 23 yrs "I what Jacinta,
REUSABLE PADS
"I like the pad mainly because it doesn't burn and the fact that it saves me on cash."
Jacinta Nduta, 25 yrs
Made from layers of absorbent fabrics
Can be washed and re-worn after use
Different shapes and sizes
How To Use
Make Your Own Reusable Pad!
If you can't purchase any of these products, then you can make your own!
1. Take a soft, absorbent piece of cloth (like leso or old t-shirt).
2. Wash the cloth the 'Soak-Soap-Sun' method.
3. Remove any loose threads, pieces of metal or anything that could irritate your skin.
4. Cut out a rectangle that is about one arm's length long and half an arm's length wide.
5. Fold the cloth three times length wise and then on each side so it is comfortable to use.
If you can, make three or four reusable pads so you have time to wash and change them during your period.
How To Wash Out Period Stains
SOAK
Place the stained cloth in cold water (not hot!) for at least 30 minutes.
1. Place the reusable pad in the crotch of your underpants. If there are wings on the side (like the ones in the drawing), you can secure them around the edge of your underpants.
2. After four to eight hours, remove the worn pad from your pants.
3. Wash the pad using 'Soak-Soap-Sun' method. If you can't wash immediately, fold it and store it in a paper bag until you can wash it.
4. Once clean and dry, store in a cool, dry place until it's time to use it again.
MENSTRUAL CUP
Flexible bell-shaped product inserted into the vagina to collect menstrual blood
Made of a medical-grade plastic-like material called silicon
Meant to be worn, washed and reused
Wear up to twelve hours at a time
Can last up to ten years
SOAP
Wash the cloth as normal with soap and water.
SUN
Hang the cloth to dry in direct sunlight. (The sun kills any bacteria or germs).
How To Use
1. Wash your hands with soap and water anytime you handle a menstrual cup.
2. To clean the cup, wash with soap and water or boil it for ten minutes.
3. Sit or stand in a comfortable position.
4. Fold the cup by pinching it together until it looks like the letter 'C'. Insert into your vagina. Once inserted, it will unfold automatically and create a seal.
5. When removing, reach up to the stem of the cup to find the base. Pinch the base of the cup to remove.
6. Empty the period blood into the toilet or latrine.
7. Rinse the cup with clean water and soap before re-inserting. Avoid using scented soaps!
"I would say to all the girls that they should try other products and find out what works for them. Pads work for me!"
Jacinta, 25 yrs
PERIOD CALENDAR
7. Ati chuo yenu kuna baridi sana mpaka school motto ilizima.
8. Ati mdomo yako ni kubwa mpaka unakulanga maembe kama njugu.
MCHONGOANO
1. Una kichwa ndogo mpaka lazima utoke nje ku-change mind.
2. Ati naskia wewe siku ya fao kupanda mathree ulisalimia kila mtu.
3. Ati naskia wewe ukona kichwa kubwa hadi ukiingia exam room. unashoiwa no group work.
4. Una kichwa bigi hadi ukienda kinyozi una admitiwa.
5. Ati wewe hubonga mob ni ka unalalanga kwa charger.
6. Naskia wewe ni mwoga mpaka ukitaka ku-change nguo wewe huzima tv ndio wasee wa tv wasikuone.
WORD SEARCH
Primo
Hedhi
Rafiki
Heshima
Hisia University
Nia
Sweater
Baleghe
YOUR STORIES ON FRIENDSHIP
An amazing group of young girls - Katrina, Stacie, Carol and Vallaall from Githurai, came together to tell us what friendship means to them.
They did a great job because they worked together. Their drawing, puzzle and story celebrate what real friends are.
You too should come together with your friends and show what friendship means to you. You can write, draw, sing, act or even make a game!
