NAIROBI, Kenya, June 1 – More than 7,000 adolescent girls gathered at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, for the Nairobi edition of SKY FEST 2026, an annual event aimed at promoting confidence, self-worth and positive decision-making among teenagers.
Held under the theme “Peace Over Pressure #Najijua,” the festival brought together girls from more than 45 schools across Nairobi and neighboring counties for a day of mentorship, entertainment, storytelling and peer engagement.
Organisers said the event sought to address challenges facing adolescent girls, including peer pressure, low self-esteem and risky behaviors, by creating a platform where young people can learn, interact and build confidence.
The festival featured performances by Kenyan entertainers including Azeezah Hashim, Njerae, DJ Bee, DJ Ader and Mr. Tee, who engaged participants through music and conversations on personal growth and resilience.
Research has increasingly highlighted the impact of peer influence on young people’s choices, particularly around issues such as tobacco use, relationships and self-image. Organisers say initiatives that provide mentorship and positive role models can help equip teenagers with the skills needed to make informed decisions.
Speaking during the event, SKY Girls Kenya Director Svetlana Polikarpova said creating safe spaces for adolescent girls remains critical as they navigate social and personal pressures.
“SKY Fest is important because it creates something many adolescent girls need: a safe, joyful space to connect with their peers and feel part of a wider sisterhood,” she said.
She noted that beyond entertainment, the event is designed to encourage girls to make positive choices regarding their health, education and future aspirations.
According to programme data shared by the organisers, girls participating in SKY Girls activities have reported improved confidence levels, greater ability to resist peer pressure and reduced uptake of harmful behaviors such as cigarette smoking.
The initiative, which began in Kenya in 2020, has expanded its focus beyond tobacco prevention to include mentorship, reproductive health awareness, gender equality, HIV prevention and psychosocial support.
In 2025, the programme reached nearly 10,000 girls in Nairobi and Kisumu through its festivals and school-based activities. Organisers expect participation to increase further this year, with the Kisumu edition of SKY FEST scheduled for June 13 and projected to attract more than 5,000 girls.
The programme works in partnership with schools, communities and government agencies, including the Ministries of Education and Health, as part of broader efforts to support adolescent wellbeing and youth empowerment across the country.
