We are happy to share the results of our 13th Annual Writing Competition at Mogonjet Secondary School in Kericho, Kenya. Please click here for the winners and feedback on their essays. The awards we give are educational scholarships that help these hardworking students remain in school.
This year, Teri Pilotti, a Lift the Lid supporter and volunteer, thoroughly read and commented on each student’s essay. Teri is from Pennsylvania, in the United States, and has taken a heartfelt interest in Lift the Lid’s work. Thank you, Teri!!
Our goal is to help our students improve their skills and encourage them to keep expressing their thoughts in writing. Enjoy these special photos of our PROUD scholarship winners.
Here are the winning essays, each accompanied by the student’s photo. We’ve highlighted our favorite sentences!
~Sara
Founder of Lift the Lid
13th Annual Writing Competition Results
First Place – $150
Elkanah Kibet Bii
Peris Cherotich
Second Place – $125
Cherotich Violah
Olivia Cheptoo
Third Place – $100
Miriam Chemutai
Brenda Chepkirui
Honorable Mentions – $50
Amon Kipkoech · Faith Chelangat · Faith Cheptoo · Abigail Cherotich · Elisha Kiptoo Cheruijot · Reagan Kirui · Diana Chepkekioi · Jackline Cherono
Congratulations to every student who entered! The judges emphasized how difficult the choices were because the essays were so engaging, thoughtful, and well organized.
Favorite Lines & Writing Highlights
The essays centered on memories, family, heritage, and meaningful objects. Teri praised the students for vivid detail, strong penmanship, and the thoughtful way they connected everyday objects with the people and traditions they value.
“When you hold it close, you can hear its soft ticking…”
Peris wrote about a treasured necklace as a lasting reminder of her roots, family, love, and heritage.
“As I grow older, I began to understand the importance of this tradition.”
Olivia called her grandfather’s watch a “tangible link to his legacy.”
Miriam wrote that her grandmother’s bracelet reminds her of the importance of “living with purpose, love and gratitude.”
Brenda explored the beauty, environmental value, and cultural meaning of the jacaranda tree.
Celebrating Our Scholarship Winners
WHEN YOU DONATE TO LTL, YOU SUPPORT EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS THAT BUILD OUR STUDENTS’ SKILLS AND CONFIDENCE. 100% of all donations go to our schools and students. We show highly motivated, disadvantaged kids that we believe in them and help them achieve their educational goals. You’ll find secure options for making a tax-deductible donation here, and we’ll send you a student’s essay. If you’re interested in sponsoring a student or getting involved with Lift the Lid, email saragoff@saragoff.com. Thank you!
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