27th February 2010 is a day that will go down in Vision Africa’s history. On that day staff, children and friends of Vision Africa projects travelled from all over Kenya to join together in appreciation of the work of Vision Africa founders – Reverend and Mrs. Packard – who were the guests of honour at the event. Our host for the day was Field Director Deborah Kimathi assisted by Vision Africa Administrator and master of ceremonies for the day, John Kiboro.
The occasion was opened with everyone being invited on to the dancefloor. DJ Moz was on hand to supply the music which got everyone’s energy levels up, even those who had travelled on overnight buses to reach Nairobi in time for the event. UK chairman, Bob Dowty was spotted learning some new moves from Vincent Kegode and Gerald Oyubo and Reverend and Mrs. Packard showed him how it was done as they joined in the dancing along with the staff and children from the projects. This really set the tone for the day as everyone participated regardless of age, ability, language or background.
Once all the guests were seated, it was time for a short formal program. This was an opportunity for individual projects to recognise the support that the Packards had shown them through Vision Africa. Kirunguru Special School was the first to take to the stage with a poem and a song performed by children with mental or physical disabilities. This was followed by a moving testimony by Seed of Hope graduate, Naomi, who told how her life had been turned around thanks to the work of the Packards and Vision Africa. Many members of the audience were touched by her words and also very impressed at her outfit which she had designed and created herself!
A large crowd turned out to show their appreciation
It was then the turn of Benson, a student from Percy Davies Special School, to recite a poem about “Light from the darkness” and the impact that the school has had on its students. The young children from Kandara Children’s Home School ended their performance by donning paper crowns saying “Thank You Packards” and presenting garlands to their “grandparents”. There were heartfelt testimonies from John who had been assisted in his education in Western Province and two children from Riandu Children’s Home near Embu as they explained how their lives changed thanks to the Packards’ work.
As the program continued, Bob Dowty represented the UK Board and spoke of their appreciation for all the work that Reverend and Mrs Packard had done and the great achievements they have made. He also thanked them for giving board members the opportunity to be part of that work. Bob informed the guests that although the Packards were retiring as Field Directors they will always be part of Vision Africa and had been appointed Field Directors “Emeritus” which ensures they will always be involved with the organisation they started and built up to the great level it is at today.
With performances by Seed of Hope centres and St John’s Children’s Centre, Riruta still to come, there was the small matter of the presentation of gifts by Lutheran School, Kibera, and the planting of a tree by the Packards assisted by project leaders, Vision Africa staff and friends. In addition to all of this, there was a display of artwork by the various projects to be judged and a cake to be presented and cut!
Planting a tree with help from Henry and John
It was truly a packed program but spirits remained high throughout. After the formal program, it was time for lunch to be served. This had been prepared by the staff and students of Seed of Hope Nairobi who worked tirelessly to ensure everyone was fed. As lunch was being taken there was a chance for the Packards to greet their guests, including friends from Thomas Barnardo Children’s Home in Nairobi where their Kenyan adventure began.
After a quick photoshoot, it was time for Kibera Mpira Mtaani to take over the proceedings. Children were taken to a nearby field where they were encouraged to make new friends from different projects as they played games co-ordinated by Vincent, Isaac and Charles of KMM. The laughter and screams were only interrupted by the thunder and as everyone ran for cover there were smiles all round. A great day had been had by all and the heavy rain was seen as the ultimate blessing for this great occasion.
Check out the gallery for more pictures from this event.