Ayiera Initiative University Scholarship Beneficiaries Embark on Transformational Tour to Germany. For the second time, two Ayiera Initiative’s university scholarship beneficiaries Telvin Otieno and Marion Oyugi traveled to Germany on 2nd June 2025 for a life-changing educational and cultural exchange tour.
Gymnasium Siegburg Alleestraße (GSA), a dedicated partner of Ayiera Initiative, organized the one-week tour. The journey enabled the two to interact with foreign students, widen their life perspective, and experience the German academic life and culture.
During their seven-day stay, Telvin and Marion engaged in various community and school-based activities, as they also made tours of Germany’s most important historical and cultural landmarks. Sessions which aimed to boost their personal growth, and the transformational potential of education were also part of the visit; these topics are highly relevant to the mission of Ayiera Initiative.
DAY FOR KOROGOCHO
G.S.A conducts a special fundraising program aiming to provide aid to the residents of Korogocho. As part pf their trip, Telvin and Marion took part in a special fundraising program conducted by G.S.A through its students. Named as Tag für Korogocho (Day For Korogocho), this activity is aimed at mobilitiying funds to support educative and social development projects for children kn Korogocho.
G.S.A students showed their passion for Korogocho by conducting activities that were aimed to realise this objective. From offering selfmade artworks and delicious cakes for sale to performing various talents to audience at the Siegburg market.
‘The kids were so hardworking, they managed to play instruments and even prepare cakes and other jewelry just to sell and raise money for the Day of Korogocho. I am thankful that a doctor repaired my glasses and said he did it as a donation towards this day ” Telvin said.
”One of the most touching moments was when young children some as young as seven and six set up small stalls selling handmade goods, snacks and crafts aimed at supporting people from underprivileged background that is us. Their kindness, and sense of responsibility deeply moved me. It was inspiring to see how even the youngest members of society played a role in uplifting others. It gave me hope and made me feel seen and supported.” noted Marion.
CAREER TOUR
In relation to their specific fields of study, the two were also taken to a career tour by visiting different firms based on their expertise where they acquired the needed industrial experience.
”Seeing powerful machines that store huge amounts of information and learning about programming and security opened my eyes. It made me realize how different real-world applications are from what we learn in books. Germany’s innovative approach to technology truly inspired me.” Telvin noted.
”One highlight was visiting a local fashion store, not just any store, but one that welcomed me behind the scenes. I learned how they manage production, the effort they put in into building strong customer relationship, and the challenges they face in a competitive market. Listening to their journey and business strategies was eye-opening and gave me fresh insight into how I can approach my own goals.” Marion.
For the disadvantaged young residents of Korogocho, this collaboration with GSA remains a hopeful gateway to experience the world. Ayiera Initiative hopes that these interactions will encourage more youth to have bigger dreams, put in more effort, and have faith in their capacity to change the world.
We are proud of our University Students and continue to provide them with platforms where they can navigate and explore the modern world.