Historias

On March 4th, Stowelink hosted a World Obesity Day celebration at Githurai Social Hall with a group of enthusiastic young people. The event was aimed at educating the youth about obesity, encouraging them to listen to human stories, and teaching them how to use first-person language when addressing obesity.

The celebration was part of Stowelink’s commitment to empowering the youth to confront obesity, which has become a major health concern worldwide. Obesity increases the risk of various health conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. The prevalence of obesity has been rising rapidly over the past few decades, and it is estimated that about 39% of adults and 18% of children globally are overweight or obese.

The event began with a training session on obesity, which was conducted by Stowelink field officers. The training covered the definition of obesity, its causes, and its health effects. The participants also learned about the importance of healthy eating habits and regular exercise in preventing and managing obesity.

One of the highlights of the event was the sharing of human stories by people who have been affected by obesity. The stories were touching and inspiring, and they helped to break down the stigma associated with obesity. The youth learned that obesity is a complex condition that affects people from all walks of life, and that it is important to show empathy and support to those who are struggling with it.

Another important aspect of the event was the training on first-person language for obesity. First-person language is a way of speaking about obesity that puts the person first, rather than their condition. For example, instead of saying “he’s obese,” one can say “he has obesity.” This approach helps to reduce stigma and promotes empathy and respect for people with obesity.

The event was a great success, and the youth left with a better understanding of obesity and the tools to confront it. The training and sharing of human stories were eye-opening and empowering, and the use of first-person language was an important step towards reducing stigma and promoting respect for people with obesity.

Stowelink is committed to continuing its efforts to empower the youth to confront obesity and other health challenges. Through events like the World Obesity Day celebration, Stowelink is making a significant contribution to improving the health and well-being of communities in Kenya and beyond.