My name is Dennis Ombuna Simon and I have a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Political Science, Public Administration and Sociology from the University of Nairobi. I am also pursuing my CPA qualification. I have been a DOT Kenya Intern for the past six months, facilitating the Reach Up! program.

I have worked with several DOT Kenya community partners. My first placement was in Koinonia Media Centre and I have since then worked with the youth at Carolina for Kibera and Shangilia Mtoto wa Africa in Kangemi. I am currently working with the youth at the Nairobi Your Counselling Centre in Eastleigh. This experience has put me in contact with people from different social, religious and political backgrounds but it has become apparent to me that ultimately, we are all human beings and have more that unites us than separates us.

The DOT Kenya internship has also taught me to be more organized. When out in the field, one must be able to manage time well to maximize on the few resources.

While working with both interns and community beneficiaries, I have learnt a lot about overcoming disagreements and managing conflicts collaboratively to build consensus among differing parties. I have been able to establish a motivating learning environment for the participants, accommodate differences in learning, identify and modify experiences to fit the individual - all this is due to the wide experience I have gained while working with DOT Kenya community partners. This opportunity has been and an eye opener and I would recommend it io graduates who want to make a contribution to the community. I commend DOT for its launch of the Reach Up! programme in Kenya.

I believe that I have had a great impact in the lives of the youths I have trained in the Reach Up! programme. I am especially proud to have been involved with the members of “Slum Art Attack” in Kibera. Coleman Cox said, “Now that it's all over, what did you really do yesterday that's worth mentioning?” I am proud to say that DOT Kenya has given me the opportunity to say that I have made an impact; I have changed lives.