Darren Mong’are

15 years old, attending St. Andrew’s School, Turi, Kenya. Darren was awarded a Beacon Scholarship in June 2022.

Darren is a diligent and responsible student currently achieving grades 7-9 in his studies. He achieved the highest mark in his year group for Religious Studies and Physics and received a Social Sciences Faculty Commendation for his attitude and efforts. Additionally, he achieved a bronze medal in the UK Maths Trust competition.

A dedicated musician, Darren is working towards Grade 8 in the piano and oboe, and Grade 7 in the trumpet. This year, he was selected to play the piano accompanying the school production and achieved a finalist medal and certificate in the Young Musicians competition. He was awarded a Tennis Sporting Colour for outstanding performance and unwavering commitment to the U15 Tennis Team.

Darren is developing and extending his social influence: he has successfully mentored a Year 9 pupil and challenged himself to develop his public speaking skills. He was selected as a group leader during Round Square Week and has attended Bible Study sessions to widen his social circle.

Darren is passionate about the voluntary work he undertakes with The Little Rock School, teaching the recorder to children in Kibera. He has found this experience transformative and can see the positive impact his music teaching has on the children’s lives. 

Beacon Workshop Participation

In Leadership Workshops, Darren has developed confidence as a group leader and is able to share ideas and draw from personal experiences. He effectively uses the TAG Model to give and receive feedback.

Darren’s 2024 Summer Beacon Citizenship Project focused on exploring the transformative power of music among disadvantaged children.