The St John Ambulance Kenya and Malaysia Cadet Exchange was inspired by a desire to expose our young people to new ideas, cultures and approaches to humanitarian service, while strengthening the bonds between St John organisations across borders, as captured in the Grand Prior Award Scheme.
The Kenyan delegation had the privilege of engaging with St John Ambulance Malaysia and experiencing firsthand the strength of its volunteer and cadet programmes.
The visit provided St John Ambulance Kenya cadets with an opportunity to learn about emergency medical services, ambulance operations, trauma care, AED and CPR awareness, community based services and youth leadership. Visits to Hospital Sungai Buloh, St John Ambulance Malaysia facilities and cadet programmes in Melaka provided valuable insights into how innovation, discipline and volunteerism can work together to serve communities.
Beyond the technical knowledge gained, the greatest takeaway was the power of friendship and shared purpose. The Kenyan cadets discovered that, although we come from different countries, we are united by one mission: to serve and save lives.
For the Kenyan cadets, the experience reinforced the understanding that being a St John member goes beyond learning first aid. As they reflected on their experience:
“This experience has shown us that being a St John member is not only about learning first aid; it is about becoming a leader who serves others with discipline, compassion and integrity.”
The St John Ambulance Kenya and Malaysia Cadet Exchange was a valuable opportunity for our Kenyan cadets to learn, connect and strengthen the bonds of service between the two countries.
When integrity meets excellence, transformation takes place.
