
The community health event was held at the National Cereal and Produce Board, located in an industrial area of Nairobi. We were led inside to a large conference room, where chairs and a projector were set up. The Penda staff introduced themselves, and included two clinical officers from Umoja: one medical and one dental, and other team members involved with community outreach. When the Penda staff learned of the Bass Team’s diverse backgrounds and skill sets, they immediately put us to work! Brittany, a PhD student and pediatric nurse was tasked with leading the nutrition presentation. Jun, a PhD student in cancer biology and pharmacology was tasked with leading the cancer presentation. Penda had teamed up with the National Cereal and Produce Board’s Wellness Director, in order to raise awareness among the employees of healthy behaviors and preventative health care.

After the presentations the Penda staff broke out into three stations: vitals, breast exams, and dental checks. Employees could wait in line and receive check ups in all three areas. Penda hosts these community events in order to raise awareness about preventative health care, but also to advertise their services and find new customers. Overall, the event encouraged more open discussion on preventative healthcare and healthy lifestyles, and hopefully promoted an environment where people feel comfortable seeking healthcare.