Peer Program

Growing confidence through peer support.

Boys for Boys and Girls for Girls create safe spaces where young people can learn, support one another, build confidence and develop practical skills for life.

Explore the programme Support a young person

About the programme

Safe spaces where young people can grow together.

POAK's Peer Program creates supportive spaces where girls and boys can talk openly, learn from one another and develop the confidence to navigate challenges.

Through Girls for Girls and Boys for Boys initiatives, the programme addresses menstrual health, mental wellbeing, social pressure, relationships, confidence and positive role models.

By strengthening peer relationships and practical life skills, young people become better equipped to support themselves and contribute positively to their schools, families and communities.

Programme focus

Peer support, mentorship, menstrual health, life skills, peer counselling, positive role models and stronger support systems for young people.

What we offer

Practical support for young people.

The programme combines peer-led learning, mentorship and practical support to help young people build confidence, resilience and skills for everyday life.

Sanitary Pad Distribution

Providing menstrual products to girls facing barriers to accessing them, helping them manage their periods with dignity and remain engaged in school.

Menstrual Health Education

Helping girls understand menstruation, hygiene, self-care and the importance of reliable health information.

Boys Mentorship Circles

Supportive spaces where boys discuss responsibility, confidence, emotional wellbeing, respectful relationships and positive decision-making.

Peer Counselling Training

Equipping selected young people with listening, communication and peer-support skills, including when to involve a trusted adult or professional.

Life Skills Workshops

Building communication, self-esteem, decision-making, teamwork, responsibility and future-planning skills.

School & Community Partnerships

Working with schools, families and community organisations to strengthen support systems for young people.

Why this programme matters

Young people need spaces where they can be heard.

Adolescence brings important changes and difficult decisions. Young people need trusted people they can talk to, practical information and positive examples.

Peer support complements families, schools and professionals by creating opportunities for young people to learn together and build supportive relationships.

Dignity Menstrual health information and access to essential menstrual products.

Confidence Opportunities to participate, lead and develop stronger self-confidence.

Belonging Supportive peer environments where young people can learn and feel connected.

Programme impact

Building stronger young people through connection.

POAK's Peer Program brings together mentorship, peer support and practical education to help young people develop skills and relationships that extend beyond the programme.

150+ Girls Supported

80+ Boys Reached

7 Schools Partnered

30 Peer Counsellors Trained

Voices from the programme

"Before joining the Girls for Girls group, I would miss school during my period. Now I have the support and information I need, and I feel more confident about myself and my future."

— Anonymous, Girls for Girls participant, Nairobi

Where we work

Reaching young people where they live and learn.

POAK works with schools and community partners to bring peer support and mentorship closer to young people.

Nairobi — Kiambiu

Community-based peer support

Activities are organised around the needs of participating young people, with schools, families and community organisations helping create safe and supportive environments.

Programme Details

Girls Groups Weekly meetings and pad distribution

Boys Groups Bi-weekly mentorship circles

Peer Counsellor Training Quarterly

Eligibility Young people in participating communities

How Young People Benefit

Confidence Opportunities to participate and lead

Life Skills Communication and decision-making

Peer Support Positive relationships and safe spaces

Mentorship Guidance from trusted facilitators

Partner with us

Bring peer support closer to young people.

POAK welcomes partnerships with schools, youth organisations, community groups, healthcare providers, businesses and development partners interested in strengthening opportunities for young people.