Celebrating Creativity at St. Mary's Academy with NaSOMA

St. Mary's Academy, a leading institution under the NaSOMA programme, is not just known for its academic excellence but also for fostering an environment where students’ talents and creativity are celebrated. This year, the school took entertainment and style to new heights by hosting its much-anticipated Talent and Fashion Show—a dazzling event that showcased the students' artistic flair, fashion sense, and love for performance.

A Fusion of Talent and Fashion

The Talent and Fashion Show, organized as part of the school's annual arts week, brought together students from various classes to express themselves through music, dance, acting, and fashion. Thanks to NaSOMA’s comprehensive support for co-curricular activities, the event was bigger and better this year, with teachers and students working together to create a show that highlighted the importance of creativity alongside academic learning.

From choreographed dance routines to breathtaking musical performances, the event had it all. But the highlight of the evening was the fashion segment, where students strutted down the runway in outfits they had designed and created themselves. Drawing inspiration from Kenyan culture, global trends, and even eco-friendly materials, the young designers wowed the audience with their originality and style.

Incorporating Local Culture and Global Trends

What set this fashion show apart was the blend of local culture with global fashion trends. Students proudly wore kitenge-inspired dresses, Maasai beadwork, and urban streetwear, demonstrating their ability to merge traditional Kenyan designs with modern aesthetics. For many, this was more than just a fashion show—it was an expression of identity, with each outfit telling a story about Kenya’s rich cultural heritage.

The event also encouraged sustainability in fashion. Some of the designs featured eco-friendly materials such as recycled fabrics and upcycled accessories, reflecting a growing awareness among students of the importance of environmental conservation. This innovative approach to fashion earned applause from parents and teachers alike, and it sparked discussions on how fashion can be both stylish and environmentally responsible.

Entertainment Meets Education with NaSOMA

NaSOMA’s involvement in organizing and supporting the event added an extra layer of educational value. The students didn’t just perform—they learned. NaSOMA’s platform allowed students to explore behind-the-scenes aspects of the entertainment industry, from event planning and stage management to fashion design and presentation. With tools like live-streaming and digital promotion, NaSOMA helped the school reach a wider audience, allowing parents who couldn’t attend in person to follow the event online.

Teachers also took advantage of NaSOMA’s digital resources to guide students on how to integrate fashion and entertainment with academic subjects. For example, fashion students learned about the mathematics of measurements and patterns, while drama students explored the art of storytelling. By blending education with entertainment, NaSOMA is ensuring that students gain practical, real-world skills that extend beyond the classroom.

A Confidence Boost for Students

One of the most rewarding outcomes of the Talent and Fashion Show was the confidence it instilled in students. Many of the participants, some of whom had never performed on stage before, spoke of how the event allowed them to step out of their comfort zones and discover new talents. With encouragement from teachers, peers, and the NaSOMA community, students gained invaluable public speaking, teamwork, and leadership skills.

Parents were equally proud of the students' growth and the school’s commitment to nurturing talent. "Seeing my child walk the runway with so much confidence was an unforgettable moment," said one parent, adding that the event showed how creativity can flourish when supported by the right platforms.

Conclusion: Fostering Creativity Through Education

At St. Mary's Academy, entertainment and style are more than just hobbies—they’re part of the holistic learning experience that the school strives to provide. By integrating these activities into the school’s curriculum through NaSOMA, students are given the opportunity to explore their passions while developing valuable skills that will serve them in the future.

As NaSOMA continues to empower schools across Kenya, events like the St. Mary's Talent and Fashion Show demonstrate the programme’s commitment to nurturing well-rounded students. It’s a reminder that education is not just about academics—it’s about providing students with a platform to shine, both in the classroom and on the stage.

With the support of NaSOMA, the future looks bright for the talented students of St. Mary’s Academy, where creativity, style, and learning come together in perfect harmony!