Welcoming a New Year at Daraja

Okay, it is not the polar bear plunge. The Daraja girls have their way of ushering in a New Year that involves getting very wet, but thankfully, not cold! We invite you to start your year with a wash.

With 121 students at Daraja, birthdays are a frequent celebration. Unlike American birthdays celebrated with cake, presents, and parties, Daraja girls celebrate with water. The birthday girl is washed (or drenched!) by her fellow students to honor a new year of life. The school showers the birthday girl in cold river water, mud, dishwater, flower petals, and anything else that enhances the festivities. Joyous laughter, birthday songs, and giddy excitement always fill the air! 

The Daraja girls have set an example of finding beauty in the simple moments of sisterhood, fellowship, and peace, which they hold so dear. As you welcome 2022, we wish you joy in the simple moments of life. Even a cup of water can make every birthday girl feel like a queen.