Though we have been teaching Kenyan students since the beginning, we hadn’t yet taught in the country itself. Well, that all changed this year! With Shikuku at the helm, we began making arrangements back in December, talking with potential partners and past students, putting together materials. We aimed for Naro Moru, the base of most Mt. Kenya adventures and home to many guides. We were thrilled when the Mt. Kenya Guides and Porters Safari Club agreed to host us. The Club is a community based organization of guides, porters and cooks in and around Naro Moru that offers direct services to Mt. Kenya adventurers and creates job opportunities for members. With the dates set, classroom secured, and materials made, all we needed was students. Turns out, all our Kenyan students suggestions that we come to Kenya were spot on – our network of colleagues, friends and, especially, past students spread the word and brought in an excellent group of students.
We held a Leave No Trace class the first day, which was superbly staffed considering Muchane Gichuru was helping out, so we had two LNT Masters and a Trainer there leading the course. We followed up with WFA and WFR-R courses – great students, great discussions, great practice, great fun. Exciting to work with friends old and new in such a wonderful location.