As expected, I learned a lot on my trip to rural Kenya, but what struck me most, was how valued learning is to the kids here, and how much education has evolved in just a couple of years.

Every where we visited, kids and teachers alike expressed gratitude for the opportunity to attend school. The students constantly shared how they are advancing their learning opportunities.

The secondary schools (which to us is a high school) seemed particularly enthusiastic about academics. One school in particular – Kisaruni, was especially memorable. Everything about this school amazed me. The campus was set in a scenic way, and every cement classroom was full of hard working students.

At this school we were given a tour by two girls my age named Marcella and Irene. These girls are 11th graders, and are very proud of their school. You can tell by the way they talk about how things run at Kisaruni that they are very involved in their education. When the tour was done, I had the privilege to sit and visit with both girls for quite awhile.

They asked me a lot of questions about what my school is like in America, and what sort of things we study. Throughout our conversation I was continually impressed with how good their English was, and how smart and determined they both were. I’d find myself getting stuck on difficult questions they would ask me.

It’s easy to see that eagerness about learning and wanting to succeed is very present, and makes a big difference in the way you learn. It’s hard for me to imagine that just a couple years ago, schooling, especially for girls, was frowned upon by elders and parents. Of course it still happens, but there are some schools with a tremendous amount of support from family members. It’s really refreshing to see so many people excited about education, and focused on a successful future.

Every girl I talked to at Kisaruni knew exactly what they want to study in a university, and fully believe they will get there. I feel very privileged I got to see how with help from The Proctor Gallagher Institute and other supporting companies, futures are being made, for kids who once believed a future in education was not possible.

Emma Combs

Emma Combs is an inspiring 15-year-old from Sitka, Alaska. She loves ballet, hiking, and spending time with her friends and family, including her black lab, Bella. When she grows up she hopes to continue with dance and travel, using her photography to connect the world and bring awareness to the needs in developing countries.

You can follow Emma’s daily life through pictures on her Instagram @ejc_pictures

If you want to see the kind of work being done that Emma experienced take a moment and go to: http://unstoppablefoundation.org