From Recognition to Representation

This year has been nothing short of remarkable for me. I was deeply humbled when my fellow teachers at AEF Ruben Primary and Junior School elected me as Teacher of the Year. Later, during the Day of the African Child celebrations, I was crowned Overall Employee of the Year for Ruben Centre. These recognitions, coming just two years since I joined the school in 2023, left me both surprised and grateful.

As if that was not enough, I was honored to be selected as one of the delegates to represent Ruben Centre at the Pamoja Gathering, held in Johannesburg, South Africa, from 13th to 18th September 2025. This was my very first time traveling internationally. The entire experience was both fascinating and exciting, one that I will carry with me for a lifetime.

The theme of the gathering was “Edmund Rice Beyond Borders (ERBB) Gathering with Purpose.” The main goal was to bring together representatives from Edmund Rice educational communities across Africa, to strengthen the Edmund Rice Charism and educational values, and to explore practical ways of transforming education with a focus on “rooted” rather than “rote” learning.

During the gathering, I was given the opportunity to showcase the programs and initiatives happening at Ruben Centre. I highlighted the wide range of services offered to the community but particularly delved deeper into the Education Department. I made a presentation on how Ruben Centre is shaping lives through education, and I was humbled by the positive response. The participants were truly impressed by the efforts and impact of our work, and it was an honor to tell the Ruben Centre story on such a continental platform.

The gathering brought together esteemed leaders including Nathan Johnson, Chairperson of the Christian Brothers Association (CBA), Sharon van Vuren, Chairperson of Edmund Leadership Forum (ELF), Brother Francis Nkwabi, representing the Provincial Leadership Team (PLT), and the organizers, Brother Michael de Klerk, Brother Michael Burke, and Brother Wales. Their guidance and presence made the gathering even more meaningful.

One of the highlights was our school visits to Veritas School, Christian Brothers College (CBC) Boksburg, and CBC Mount Edmund. These visits opened my eyes to how much can be achieved when academic excellence is balanced with talent development and character formation. At CBC Boksburg, where I was privileged to spend more time, I witnessed how learners are nurtured not only to be intellectually competent but also to be disciplined, respectful, and creative. The high level of discipline and the warm, respectful way the students welcomed us was inspiring and something we can embrace more strongly at Ruben Centre.

We also learned how effectively digital technology is being incorporated into classrooms, enhancing the learning experience and making education more interactive. This inspired me to think about how we, too, can integrate such practices in our teaching to better prepare our students for the future.

Another memorable moment was visiting the Apartheid Museum in Johannesburg. The museum vividly illustrates the painful history of apartheid and South Africa’s journey through the 20th century. Walking through its exhibits was both moving and eye-opening, reminding me of the importance of justice, equality, and education in building a better society.

Looking back, this journey was not only fantastic but truly life-changing. I returned home with a wealth of knowledge and experiences that I am eager to share with my fellow teachers and students at AEF Ruben Primary and Junior School. Together, we can continue to embody the Edmund Rice values of Presence, Compassion, and Liberation, making learning not just about passing exams, but about nurturing character, talent, and holistic growth.

I remain deeply grateful to our Director, Br. Frank O’Shea, and our head teacher, Mr. Peter Kanyago, for giving me this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. This journey created memories that will remain with me forever, and the lessons I gained will continue to inspire both my work and the community I serve.

Story by Carol Jaicah

Edits by Benson Kagwima