I created EmpowerED after realizing that many learners in my classroom were struggling with low self-confidence, broken relationships, and poor academic performance—issues that often stemmed from the effects of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) such as neglect, poverty, exposure to violence, and parental substance abuse. I noticed that most of them were afraid to answer questions, did not know how to resolve conflicts, and would ridicule or laugh at their peers’ answers. This behavior further lowered the self-esteem of those who tried to participate, creating an environment where learning and collaboration were difficult.
Research shows that Positive Childhood Experiences (PCEs)—especially those provided by caring and consistent adults—can help counter the effects of ACEs. As teachers, we are in a unique position to create those experiences.
I founded EmpowerED to do exactly that: to nurture safety, connection, and belonging in the classroom. I believe that for the brain to truly learn, it first needs to feel safe and loved. A safe, supportive classroom provides both, paving the way for meaningful learning and emotional growth.
In practice, empowerED takes the form of structured, creative, and reflective classroom activities that help learners develop self-belief, confidence, and emotional awareness. Some examples of these activities include:
Filling a gratitude Jar
This teaches gratitude—a mindset that helps children focus on the good, build hope, and stay emotionally grounded despite the challenges they face.
Dear God Notes
Learners write private prayers or wishes to a higher power. This nurtures reflection and helps them practice emotional expression, allowing them to process thoughts they may not feel ready to share aloud.
“I Am Sorry” / “I Forgive You” Notes
These notes help repair broken connections. Learners practice accountability and forgiveness, learning that it’s okay to make mistakes—and that relationships can be restored with honesty and empathy.
Daily Affirmations
Learners say positive words to themselves, building confidence and teaching the power of positive self-talk and belief in one’s own abilities.
Understanding Emotions
As a group, we name and explore feelings like anger, fear, or joy. This teaches emotional literacy—helping learners understand themselves and others, and giving them tools to express emotions in healthy ways.
Trash It and Move On
Learners write negative thoughts or regret, then tear it up and throw it away. This symbolic act helps them release difficult emotions.
Birthday Celebrations
We celebrate each learner’s birthdays to say, 'we see you, you matter'
empowerED has been spreading organically through visibility, collaboration, and impact within and beyond my classroom. The activities first gained attention within my school community as other teachers noticed positive changes in learner behavior—greater confidence, empathy, and engagement. This led to peer teachers adopting practices like Daily Affirmations, Gratitude Jars, and Birthday Celebrations in their own classes.
I also shared empowerED’s approach through Teach For Kenya platforms, where it was showcased among outstanding fellowship project during the Eagles’ Den Competition, earning recognition and seed funding. This exposure inspired other Fellows to replicate parts of the initiative in their placement schools across different regions.
Beyond my fellowship, empowerED has continued to spread through storytelling and advocacy. I document activities on social media and professional networks like LinkedIn, sparking conversations around social-emotional learning and the importance of creating safe, nurturing classrooms. I’ve also introduced empowerED practices in church youth programs and community literacy sessions, extending its reach to more children in vulnerable settings.
Over time, I’ve realized that while empowerED has positively impacted learners, sustaining emotional growth requires consistent modeling from the adults who teach them. This insight inspired me to modify and expand empowerED into a broader initiative called SEL Matters Africa.
Through SEL Matters Africa, I aim to shift the focus from only teaching learners social-emotional skills to also equipping teachers with the knowledge, tools, and habits to practice SEL in their own lives and classrooms. When teachers understand and apply SEL principles—such as empathy, self-awareness, and emotional regulation—they naturally create safe, nurturing, and emotionally intelligent environments where authentic learning can take place.
Additionally, when teachers understand Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and Positive Childhood Experiences (PCEs), they are better positioned to respond to learners with compassion, build trust, and create healing-centered classrooms. The vision is to design teacher training sessions, workshops, and reflective practice tools that help educators both practice and model SEL—building emotionally healthy schools and resilient communities across Africa.
If you want to try EmpowerED, start by checking the needs in your classroom. Observe and identify the challenges your learners face — what Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) are most common among them? Is it neglect, low self-esteem, poor relationships, or emotional withdrawal? Once you understand the need, design simple, intentional activities that help create Positive Childhood Experiences (PCEs) to counter those effects.
Involve your learners in shaping the process — let them share what makes them feel safe, loved, and supported. Be flexible and ready to learn along the way; every classroom and learner is different.
You’ll face challenges, and at times it will require you to face yourself and grow. Expect emotional fatigue — this work is deeply human and emotionally engaging. That’s why it’s important to build a strong self-care system for yourself. Take time to rest, reflect, and recharge.
Remember, you cannot pour from an empty cup. Empower yourself emotionally so you can empower your learners to heal, grow, and believe in themselves.
