How I learnt some new skills during the long school break

One of my life plans was complete high school by 16, a timeline that was delayed due to Covid-19.

But with a freer schedule that is different from school, I used this opportunity to discover my hidden skills and talents and putting all effort into developing them knowing that, once time is lost, I would never be able to get it back.  

I decided to make my stay at home memorable: I learnt knitting and crocheting to make mats.

Being mindful of time is also the reason that I was upset because I want to be a pilot and I know this takes time.

So, I used my Home Science lessons and made a deliberate effort to practice what we were taught in school such as cooking and other house chores.

After all, going to the farm and doing house chores would become my daily routine until schools open.

Making door mats

I took it a notch higher and learnt how to use crochets to make door mats and scarves, which I am proud to see in my home. My elder sister has been a partner and a support system throughout this process.

As time goes by, I am thinking I can even make money out of this.

I have been home for six months, and I have not forgotten that the most important activity in my life in this period is my studies, when schools reopen.

So my elder siblings and family remind me to revise my notes and read, even though I do not know what tomorrow will bring.

I attended my online classes and I am grateful that I was able to afford the data bundles.

I am happy that I made something out of the free time we have, which was discovering my potential.

I am also thankful that I have a family that supported me to learn and discover my gifts.

Winny Tito, 16, is a student at St Angela's Girls High School in Kitui County.

Are you aged 10-20 and would like to be Nation’s young reporter? Email your 400-600-word article to [email protected]