Submitted by Purity Gakii Kirea on Thu, 22/01/2026 - 12:59
This past weekend, from 16 to 18 January 2026, the Mastercard Foundation Scholars embarked on a deeply enriching three‑day retreat to Stratford‑upon‑Avon - the historic birthplace of William Shakespeare.
What began as a simple Friday afternoon gathering at the Mastercard Foundation programme’s office quickly unfolded into a weekend filled with reflection, laughter, learning, and renewed purpose. With bags packed, warm layers on, and hearts full of anticipation, we boarded the bus ready for a journey that promised both rest and growth.
Gathering at the office on Friday afternoon
Upon arrival, the rooms were ready, the staff were warm, and the surroundings radiated tranquillity - a perfect setting for reflection as we prepare for a demanding Lent Term.
Dinner that evening was served by the staff, and the room was filled with joy, energy, and gratitude. That evening after dinner, we embraced the spirit of play - Scrabble, board games, and the crowd‑favourite Mafia game, which had nearly everyone participating. The laughter was contagious, the debates were hilarious, and the competitive spirit brought out a new side of many in the group.
But beyond the games, something more meaningful happened: conversations. Mastercard Foundation Scholars from different countries, disciplines, and backgrounds exchanged ideas about their projects, their home countries, and the change they hope to create. The room became a melting pot of perspectives; a reminder that this community is rich with knowledge, lived experience, and visionary thinking.
Saturday began with a powerful wellbeing session led by Student Wellbeing Adviser Grace titled “Two Truths & Tension.” Scholars shared their peaks, valleys, turning points, and unanswered questions with honesty and vulnerability. It was an emotional but grounding reminder that every one of us carries a story of resilience and that wellbeing is essential to our journeys.
After breakfast, we headed out for a step‑challenge walk through Stratford. Dressed in sporty outfits and full of energy, we enjoyed the riverside views, fresh air, and the calm of nature. Our route took us through Bancroft Gardens, where we explored statues of Lady Macbeth, Hamlet, and other Shakespearean figures – a refreshing and educational experience for many first‑time visitors.
Sightseeing and getting our steps in by the river
In the afternoon, Tracy, the programme’s Transitions Coordinator, led an insightful session on ‘Life after Cambridge’, covering PhD options, visas, placements, and employment pathways. The discussion was practical and engaging, offering clarity as we plan our next steps.
After dinner, the evening came alive with presentations from Damilola Oluwasimirin, Flourish Erhijakpor, Tadalisika Zulu, and Adebayo Abdulrahman. Their storytelling, humour, and reflections were captivating. They highlighted everyday scenarios we could all relate to in ways that were both relatable and hilarious, leaving the room in constant laughter. This was more than entertainment it was a celebration of creativity, leadership, and the vibrant spirit of this programme’s community.
Sunday morning marked the end of our retreat. The bus ride back was quieter, not from exhaustion, but from contentment. We returned with renewed energy, deeper connections, and a stronger sense of purpose. This weekend was more than a getaway. It was a reminder of why the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program is so transformative. It creates spaces where young leaders from across Africa can pause, reflect, learn, and grow - not just academically, but personally and collectively.
I am deeply grateful for this experience, for the community I’m part of, and for the Mastercard Foundation’s commitment to nurturing leadership, wellbeing, and lifelong impact.
What a retreat. What a community. What a privilege.
