Bridge International Academies Celebrating Excellence at the National Music Festivals 2024
The Kenya Music Festival, organized by the Ministry of Education, is renowned as the largest festival of its kind in East and Central Africa. With over 600 competitive categories spanning music, dance, and elocution, it attracts more than 3 million participants from across the nation.
This year’s festival, held at Moi Girls High School in Eldoret from August 2 to 14, 2024, continues to highlight the economic potential of the creative sector and its contribution to the country’s development.
As the festival continues to spotlight the creative potential of our youth, it also highlights the vital role of the arts in personal and societal development.
This year’s event is a testament to the power of artistic expression, critical thinking, and cultural enrichment, supported by sponsors like Jubilee Life Insurance, who believe in fostering artistic talent as a cornerstone of education and socio-economic progress.
Among the many inspiring stories emerging from this year’s festival is the remarkable achievement of Bridge International Academies Ugunja in Siaya County.
After securing 11th place last year, they made a dramatic leap to 6th place this year! This significant improvement reflects their dedication, perseverance, and relentless pursuit of success.
I want to thank our pupils and parents for taking this in their hearts- developing and nurturing the talent of a child, this is what CBC is all about- making sure no talent goes unnoticed or wasted
These were the heartfelt words of Fredrick Aura, Academy Manager at Bridge Ugunja following the National Music Festivals.
Every time our students succeed, it feels like a personal victory. To see them rise higher each year is a powerful reminder of the impact we can have when we believe in each other. He added, his eyes shining with pride.
“Success is not the key to happiness. Happiness is the key to success. If you love what you are doing, you will be successful,” said Albert Schweitzer. This sentiment captures the essence of Bridge Ugunja’s journey.
Their performance at the festival was more than a showcase of talent; it was a story of growth and resilience. The leap from 11th to 6th place represents countless hours of practice and a passionate pursuit of their dreams driven by the joy of doing what they love.
The festival also celebrated the poetic talent of students from Bridge International Academies Mahoo in Taita Taveta County. Their performances at the National Levels were a powerful demonstration of skill and passion, earning impressive scores of 82% and 84% in the two poems they were presenting.
Whenever I see my students perform, it feels like a piece of my heart is on that stage with them. Watching them thrive is the greatest reward, and I’m excited for all the new milestones they will reach, reflects Patterson Kariuki, a teacher at Bridge International Academies with evident passion and joy.
Pablo Picasso once said, “Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once we grow up.” This quote resonates with the students from Bridge Mahoo, who have embraced their artistic journey with enthusiasm. Most of them hope to pursue careers in the creative field.
Adding to the celebration, the Bridge Kinoo Netball team also made waves at a different national level. Competing in the sports section hosted in Kakamega County, they earned a trophy for 3rd runners-up! This achievement highlights the diverse talents nurtured within Bridge International Academy schools.
We need to fully embrace CBC; it’s all about nurturing talents to a level where pupils can eventually earn from their skills. These were the powerful words from Eunice Nyamwea, School Supervisor, Bungoma County during the 2024 National Music Festivals.
The National Music Festivals serve as a reminder of the profound impact that the arts have on personal development and cultural enrichment. Professor Ngala, Chairman of the Kenya Music Festival, states, “Creative arts are essential for holistic development, as they encompass the physical, emotional, cognitive, and social aspects of a child.”
This year’s festival continues to highlight the economic potential of the creative sector and its role in driving cultural and economic growth.
As we celebrate these extraordinary achievements, we reflect not only on the success of individual performers but also on the broader impact of the National Music Festivals. These stories of triumph and growth inspire us all and remind us of the incredible potential within each of us.
Congratulations to all the participants and their mentors for their dedication and hard work. The journey of artistic and personal growth continues, and we look forward to seeing where these remarkable talents will lead us in a few years to come.
