As the 2024 school year came to a close, we brought together the Dottie Scholars for our annual leadership camp. This event was not just an opportunity to unwind after a busy term but an intentional space for learning, connection, and growth. Over several days, the girls participated in activities designed to build confidence, creativity, and collaboration—key qualities that align with Dignitas’ mission.
At Dignitas, we believe that schools are environments where learners thrive when everyone has the support they need. Our work focuses on empowering teachers and school leaders to create vibrant, inclusive spaces. While we work tirelessly to strengthen the adults in education, we must also address the needs of learners who are often left behind due to financial, social, or cultural barriers.
The Dottie Scholars Program bridges that gap.
Named in honor of the late educator Dottie Milcah Okayo, the program has been running since 2011. It provides bright but under-served girls with a chance to complete high school while developing the leadership skills they need to succeed in life. In 2024, we supported 30 scholars across Kenya, each a testament to the transformative power of opportunity paired with mentorship.
More than just scholarships, the Dottie Scholarship program is a holistic approach to education. The girls receive financial support, including tuition and boarding fees, along with leadership training during school breaks. These sessions are designed to nurture critical thinking, decision-making, and resilience—qualities we emphasize in our work with teachers and school leaders.
During the camp, the girls challenged themselves and each other through activities that required teamwork and problem-solving. Sessions on personal mission statements and goal-setting sparked lively discussions, while team-building exercises reinforced the importance of collaboration.
“This camp taught me that I have something valuable to contribute,” shared Judy Wangari, a Form One student at St. Ann. “It’s given me the confidence to share my ideas and believe in their impact.”
By equipping these young women with leadership skills, we’re preparing them not only to succeed academically but also to influence their schools and communities positively.
Why This Matters
The Dottie Scholars Program doesn’t exist in isolation. These girls come from schools where Dignitas works closely with educators to strengthen leadership and instructional quality. Through our teacher professional development programs, we empower educators to better identify and support learners facing challenges, whether academic, social, or financial.
For many of the Dottie Scholars, their journey began with a teacher or school leader who saw potential in them and advocated for their inclusion in this program. This connection between empowering teachers and uplifting learners creates a ripple effect: vibrant schools where all students have a chance to succeed.
At Dignitas, we are intentional in fostering the holistic growth of each Dottie Scholar during their time in high school. We organize leadership training sessions and camps that enhance the development of every girl. We believe that, in a world where girls are at risk of exploitation and harm, empowering them at a young age can help them understand their rights and, in turn, empower other girls in their spaces. While providing education through scholarships is essential, we also prioritize each scholar’s mental wellness and character development, ensuring they are equipped to thrive in all areas of life.