Three students from the Kilembwa Lobster Team, after winning the national WRO competition in Kenya, had the remarkable opportunity to travel to Singapore for the International World Robot Olympiad. For these students, it was their first-time leaving Kenya, and the excitement was beyond measure. They were accompanied by three chaperones: their teacher and two Kenya Connect staff members. The competitions took place from 26th to 28th November 2025.

The WRO international event brought together over 600 teams from 90 countries. The competition categories included Robo Mission, Robo Sports, Future Engineers, and Future Inventors—each divided into elementary, junior, and senior levels. Leading technology companies were also present, showcasing innovative products, especially in the edtech space.

Our students competed in the Robo Mission Senior Category. The competition was extremely stiff, and they secured position 85 out of 95 teams. While they did not place among the top teams, the experience was invaluable. They interacted with peers from around the world, observed high-level robotics designs, and learned that many international students begin coding and engineering at a very young age. Exposure to diverse robot designs, materials, and problem-solving approaches broadened their understanding and sparked new ideas for future competitions.

One of the highlights of the trip was sharing dinner with the President and Rotarians from the Sentosa Singapore Rotary Club. We learned about their impactful support for WASH programs in Cambodian schools through global grants. We discussed potential future collaboration as we continue supporting education in our respective communities.

On Saturday, we met Jack Sim, the founder of the World Toilet Organization. Jack is passionate about transforming societal problems into sustainable solutions and entrepreneurial opportunities. His advocacy led the United Nations to adopt November 19th as World Toilet Day. He was accompanied by Darren, his 26-year-old mentee who has successfully built a business selling ornamental insectivorous plants. We visited Darren’s farm and had inspiring conversations about how he began entrepreneurship at a young age and completely transformed his family’s life.

Key Learnings from the Trip

1. Exposure to world-class systems broadens horizons.
Singapore’s efficiency impressed us—from its reliable public transport systems to the discipline of its citizens. Using tourist access cards, we navigated trains and buses seamlessly around the city. Their strict adherence to traffic rules was notable.

2. Early exposure to STEM creates empowered thinkers.
We saw firsthand that introducing children to coding and engineering early equips them with creativity, confidence, and problem-solving skills.

3. Determination outweighs starting point.
Regardless of one’s background, commitment to making a difference can lead to extraordinary achievements.

4. Failure is a stepping stone.
We learned that failure is not something to fear; it is an opportunity to learn, improve, and innovate.

5. Problems inspire innovation.
Challenges push individuals and communities to think deeply and develop meaningful solutions.

6. Mindset is everything.
A positive, open mindset is the foundation of growth. A negative mindset blocks progress, while a hopeful one opens the door to change.

This trip was transformative for our students and staff. The exposure, learning, and global connections made possible through donor support have planted seeds that will shape the future of robotics, innovation, and education in our community.

We are deeply grateful to all donors for their contribution in making this life-changing experience possible.

Students reflections

Dennis Kioko

It has been a wonderful experience travelling outside the country and it has been my first time travelling on an airplane getting to meet a lot of people with different mentality from us see the greatest country to travel to. I have learned a lot from this trip. Singapore at the time of our independence was at the same level of development with Kenya and now it is one of the greatest countries. Getting to take the underground train, meeting people who mentioned us and we were given advice also getting to know the history of Singapore. Coming out of this trip I have been changed with different mentality.

Joshua Kioko

Participating in the Singapore competition was a powerful and eye-opening experience that allowed me to grow both academically and personally. From the moment we arrived, I was exposed to a new environment, new cultures, and new ways of thinking. Competing on an international stage made me realize how big the world is and how much potential young people everywhere possess.

One of the most important lessons I learned is that preparation and teamwork are key to success. Throughout the competition, my team and I worked closely together, supported one another, and pushed ourselves to do our best. Even though we did not secure the victory, the journey itself was more valuable than the outcome. Losing taught me resilience, humility, and the importance of continuous improvement.

I also learned the value of exposure. Seeing how other teams presented their ideas, solved problems, and used technology showed me what is possible when creativity and hard work come together. It motivated me to improve my skills, think more critically, and aim even higher in future competitions.

Another takeaway from the experience was confidence. Standing before judges and presenting our work boosted my courage and showed me that I am capable of achieving great things, not only locally but internationally.

Overall, the Singapore competition was not just an event—it was a life-changing opportunity. It helped me discover my strengths, identify areas I need to grow, and build a mindset that is focused on learning, innovation, and perseverance. I am grateful for the experience, and I believe it will inspire me to work even harder for future opportunities and successes.

Maxwell Karanja

The trip to Singapore has been a life changing trip for me. I interacted with many different students from different places around the world. I learned a lot from them we shared much about our lives in our countries. The competition was stiff but we gave it all that we had even though we did not win we represented our country well.

I was encouraged by how students from other countries were using technology and I saw that technology has a bright future.

Experiencing our stay in Singapore I was moved and I promised myself to help Kenya move to another level. Singapore was like paradise full of technology. The trip has helped reset my mind and aim higher. We met with different people and got advice and their life stories which were so encouraging to me.

I loved all that I saw there and I pray to God help me to achieve my goals and make my dreams come true. Thank you to all who supported us may the Lord bless you abundantly.