My First International Assignment: Lessons Beyond Borders
My name is Esther Mmbai Diera, and I am currently an intern with the African Maths Initiative. This past December, I had the incredible opportunity to embark on my first international assignment. From December 14th to 20th, I participated in the 8th STEM Youth Boot Camp in Arusha, Tanzania, an experience that was both eye-opening and deeply enriching.
This photo, taken at the Nelson Mandela African Institution of Science and Technology (NM-AIST), captures the spirit of the STEM Youth Boot Camp. It showcases a group of enthusiastic facilitators from different organizations, including the African Maths Initiative (Kenya) and Project Inspire (Tanzania), all united by a shared commitment to inspiring young learners in STEM.
The journey from Kakamega to Arusha was an adventure in itself, offering a blend of excitement and discovery. As someone who enjoys the outdoors, I embraced the opportunity to take in the changing scenery—from rolling hills to vast skies and bustling towns that felt like scenes from a movie. The company of friends, engaging conversations, and a well-curated playlist made the long trip feel like a journey worth savoring.
Crossing the border came with its own set of challenges and unexpected lessons. While I had prepared for potential delays, navigating the unfamiliar customs procedures and adjusting to cultural differences added an extra layer of complexity. However, these experiences were valuable, providing me with new insights into life beyond my home country.
Before setting off, the African Maths Initiative ensured we were well-prepared through detailed briefings on travel logistics, cultural awareness, and safety guidelines. Additionally, I took it upon myself to research Tanzanian culture, learn basic Swahili phrases, and pack all the essentials needed for the trip.
Upon arriving in Arusha, the energy of the boot camp was immediately infectious. The students were bright, inquisitive, and eager to learn—challenging my own teaching approaches in the best way possible. Facilitating and co-facilitating sessions pushed me to think on my feet, but the reward was immense. I found myself learning just as much from the students as they did from me, particularly when they offered fresh perspectives and creative problem-solving strategies. This reaffirmed the importance of fostering collaborative learning, a value deeply embedded in the African Maths Initiative. The organization’s structured facilitator training and emphasis on inclusivity played a key role in ensuring the camp’s success.
This photo encapsulates the lively atmosphere of the STEM Youth Boot Camp in Arusha, where I had the privilege of leading an engaging session.
One of the most memorable moments came when a student approached me after a session and said, "You’ve made math fun for me." Those simple words reaffirmed my passion for teaching. Each day, the students' feedback was both encouraging and humbling, reminding me that education is not just a profession but a calling.
Another highlight of the experience was the strong sense of teamwork among facilitators. Collaborating with experts in Mathematics, Science, Technology, and Engineering led to a dynamic learning environment. We constantly exchanged ideas, supported one another, and designed interactive activities that made learning more engaging. One particularly impactful session involved a cross-disciplinary approach—Mathematics facilitators guided students in understanding the principles behind gear ratios, while Engineering facilitators helped them apply these concepts in building robotic arms. This synergy not only enriched the students' learning but also strengthened our connections as facilitators.
Beyond the structured sessions, the informal interactions—whether during breaks or late-night discussions—were just as meaningful. Engaging with members of Project Inspire and other organizations working toward similar STEM education goals sparked valuable conversations about new approaches and potential solutions to common challenges. Being part of a community driven by the same vision was truly inspiring.
A moment of shared learning and discovery. I'm explaining a mathematical concept to a group of eager students, and their focused expressions tell me they're grasping the idea.
Looking back, this experience was much more than just an assignment. It was a journey of growth, connection, and self-discovery. The balance of learning and enjoyment made the entire experience feel less like work and more like an adventure.
I am deeply grateful to the African Maths Initiative for this incredible opportunity. It allowed me to share my knowledge while also learning from my peers and the brilliant young minds I encountered. The relationships built along the way—both with students and fellow facilitators—were an unexpected yet deeply rewarding part of the journey.
This past week has been transformative, shaping me both as an educator and as an individual. Given the chance, I would eagerly participate in such an initiative again. For anyone considering similar collaborative programs, I encourage you to embrace new experiences, remain open to different perspectives, and cherish the connections that come from shared learning. This boot camp reinforced the idea that education transcends borders, and by working together, we can inspire and empower the next generation of STEM leaders.