Community spaces are an important part of our world, offering opportunities for meaningful connection, to tap into a local resource or simply a place to be among your neighbors. At the Mars Wrigley Foundation, we understand the value of such spaces and have made it a part of our mission to support initiatives that create these vital hubs of social connection, which the WHO recognizes as a catalyst for health, wellbeing and economic good.
In 2019, as part of our Community Connection grant pilot program, the Mars Wrigley Foundation provided support to Safe Spaces in a high-poverty community in Nairobi, Kenya. The partnership aimed to enhance spaces the community identified as essential, which resulted in the construction of a roof over their basketball court along with its resurfacing and establishing a computer center, fostering an area for connectivity and wellbeing.
Established with the noble motto "I am the change," Safe Spaces embodies the spirit of empowerment, emphasizing the potential of each girl they serve to become a role model and leader in her community.
As we approach the three-year mark since the completion of the Safe Spaces project, the Mars Wrigley Foundation caught up with Peninah Nthenya Musyimi, the Founder and Director of Safe Spaces, to share some updates on the project's ongoing impact.
What have the impacts been of this space?
The impact of this initiative has been significant, with over 14,300 girls & more than 8,000 community members utilizing the open-air basketball court to date, providing a sense of togetherness. It was particularly critical to have an outdoor place for the community to meet during the pandemic & periods of physical distancing outdoors. The computer center has become a center for various educational purposes, including academic research, life skills education, reproductive health education & general knowledge expansion.
Is there anyone in particular that has benefited from these spaces?
The space has made a difference to many individuals, but two stand out:
Emily*, a young girl living in the community, faced numerous challenges that were affecting her academic performance. Her home lacked proper lighting, and reports of family troubles were prevalent in her neighborhood, creating a difficult environment for her to concentrate on her studies. Her grades began to decline, and it seemed like she was losing hope.
Recognizing Emily's potential, the community intervention team went into action. They approached Emily and her mother, offering support and counseling. Emily was enrolled in the Safe Spaces program, which provided a nurturing and safe environment for her. With access to the refurbished computer center, Emily found a place where she could focus on her homework after school and on weekends. The availability of resources and a conducive learning space contributed significantly to her academic progress.
Over time, Emily's grades improved noticeably. She became more confident and determined, turning her life around. Emily's story showcases how a supportive community, combined with access to communal resources like the computer center, can uplift and empower young women to overcome challenges and excel in their academics.
There is also Nancy*, who is a single mother of four with three girls and a boy, and faced adversity when she lost her job due to the COVID-19 pandemic. With limited options, Nancy struggled to provide for her family and maintain a stable livelihood.
However, the refurbished basketball court brought new opportunities to the community. Nancy was offered a cleaning job at the court, providing her with a source of income to support her family. This opportunity not only alleviated her financial burden but also boosted her self-esteem and sense of purpose. Nancy's story exemplifies how community initiatives can create employment opportunities that positively impact individual lives.
What is the importance of having spaces like these available for girls/women in Nairobi?
- Education and Empowerment: In resource-constrained environments, access to education is often limited. A computer center offers a treasure trove of educational resources, enabling girls and women to engage in self-directed learning, complete their homework, and conduct research. This empowers them with knowledge and skills that can lead to personal growth and improved life opportunities.
- Safe and Supportive Environment: Slums can be challenging environments, especially for girls and women who might face safety concerns and limited personal space. These dedicated spaces provide a safe haven where they can learn, socialize, and engage in recreational activities without fear. It cultivates a sense of security and encourages their active participation.
- Health and Well-being: Information about reproductive health and life skills is essential for the well-being of girls and women. The computer center can host content that educates them about these critical topics, enabling informed decision-making and better health outcomes.
- Skill Development: Beyond formal education, spaces like a basketball court offer opportunities for skill development. Playing sports fosters teamwork, leadership, discipline, and physical well-being. Such skills contribute to personal development and future success.
- Community Building: These spaces foster a sense of community. Girls and women can come together, share experiences, and build supportive networks. This social interaction enhances their emotional well-being and encourages collective problem-solving.
- Empowerment and Aspirations: Access to these spaces exposes girls and women to new possibilities and opportunities. Interacting with various resources can help them discover their interests and passions, fostering a sense of empowerment and encouraging them to dream big.
- Breaking Stereotypes: These spaces challenge traditional gender roles and stereotypes. Girls and women engaging in sports or accessing digital resources challenge societal norms and pave the way for a more equitable future.
- Economic Opportunities: In the case of the basketball court, it can provide economic opportunities like the cleaning job mentioned earlier. And long term, it will support their education which will provide additional career and livelihood opportunities. This empowers women financially and reduces economic disparities.
- Community Development: The presence of these spaces contributes to the overall development of the community. Access to education, health information, and recreation positively impacts the collective well-being.
- Inspiration and Role Models: When girls and women see others like them utilizing and excelling in these spaces, it inspires them to do the same. They can find role models and mentors within their community who motivate them to pursue their goals.
How has basketball impacted your life / what life lessons have you learned from playing?
Basketball has transformed my life, teaching me essential life lessons. I have gained confidence, teamwork skills, and resilience on the court, which I apply in my daily life. Basketball has been instrumental in uplifting my community, allowing me to mentor others and instill crucial values of teamwork, discipline, and respect. Often basketball scholarships will enable the girls we serve to continue their education and receive a university degree. It then becomes much more than a sport.
The Mars Wrigley Foundation’s commitment to championing initiatives that strengthen community and overall wellbeing is reinforced through the important work Safe Spaces continues to lead in the community. The outcomes of the pilot project, which the foundation implemented to support connection and further wellbeing, have surpassed our expectations and continue to deliver on its promise.
The stories of Emily and Nancy, among others, underscore the importance of connection and collaboration in meeting community needs. They demonstrate how the presence of community spaces, activated by community-based leaders, enable people to gather and thrive, leaving a lasting impact on both collective and individual lives.
Stay tuned for further updates on the evolution of the Community Connection grant program and how we will be celebrating the ongoing efforts of our partners who tirelessly work to improve lives and inspire happiness in communities worldwide.
