Once known as a fearful "goon" lost in drug addiction within Trans Nzoia County's Matisi Settlement, 35-year-old Hosea Wanjala is progressively transforming into a community leader, utilizing new skills from the Socio Emotional Skills Training (SEST) program.

This remarkable transformation done over the past 45 days, has not only equipped Hosea and other youth with vital skills, but has also ignited a spark of hope and ambition in individuals who took part.

Through a collaboration between the Second Kenya Informal Settlements Improvement Project (KISIP2) and the World Bank- funded National Youth Opportunities Towards Advancement (NYOTA) initiative, Wanjala has truly found a new purpose, moving from isolation, to plans to venture into poultry farming and leading peers toward personal development. Wanjala’s story highlights the impact of targeted skill-building on individual lives within informal settlements.

“I wasted my life in drugs and other substance abuse. I couldn’t interact with people and was seen as a feared person. Nobody would face me in the community because of my past life,” says the father of one, whose day starts at 6:00 am.

Hosea was known in his community for his enthusiasm but struggled to find direction in life. "Before SEST, I felt lost," he recalls during the brief telephone interview with the NPCT. "I had dreams but no clear path to follow." This changed when he enrolled in the SEST training program, which combined skill-building with sports, encouraging teamwork and personal development.

The culmination of this transformative journey was celebrated during a successful sports day event on April 21, where participants showcased their newly acquired skills and spirit.

The event was attended by members from the settlement executive and grievance redress committees, local administration, trainers and community leadership.

"Witnessing the growth of Hosea and these young individuals has been inspiring. This is a testament to the impact of the training,” noted Faith, one of the trainers.

Hosea's transformation has been particularly notable. Through the training, he gained not only practical skills but also confidence and leadership abilities. He tells in the interview, that he wants to lead a group of his peers, helping them to practice the techniques they learned and encouraging them to push beyond their limits. "I never imagined I could lead others," Hosea admits. "But now, I want to help my community grow."

As the training concluded, the sense of accomplishment was palpable. Community members witnessed firsthand the change in Hosea and his peers, who now embody resilience and determination. The SEC and GRC members echoed this sentiment, expressing their appreciation for the progress made.

Hosea Wanjala’s journey through SEST training exemplifies the power of community support and skill development. With newfound purpose and a vision for the future, he stands as a beacon of hope for other youths in Matisi Settlement, proving that with the right guidance and resources, transformation is not just possible—it is inevitable.