A new board game is changing how adolescent girls in Kenya learn to navigate real-world pressures. HOW TO FIND YOUR SKY, developed by SKY Girls Kenya, has already reached over 150,000 girls in Nairobi and Kisumu across more than 100 schools.

By weaving critical topics such as HPV vaccination, tobacco use, and teen pregnancy into gameplay, the initiative is making difficult conversations easier and more accessible.

The game places players in relatable scenarios—ranging from friendships and academics to peer pressure and relationships—where they must make choices with clear consequences.

Using dice and “choice cards,” the girls face dilemmas that mirror their daily lives. Positive decisions earn rewards, while poor choices highlight risks, helping players practice problem-solving in a safe and supportive setting.

The approach is particularly valuable for girls in boarding and remote schools, who often lack access to online content or social platforms that address such issues. Instead of being lectured, participants actively engage in role-play and discussions that encourage them to think critically and build confidence.

“What I really love about the game is that the scenarios are just like the things we go through as girls every day. It feels real—and it shows me step by step how I can handle those situations better,” said a Form 3 student at Moi Girls.

Evidence suggests the game is already having a measurable impact. Surveys show that 86 per cent of participants reported greater confidence in handling peer and sexual pressure. 

40 per cent learned more about HPV, while another 40 per cent found new strategies to resist pressure to smoke. This is significant given that only a third of eligible girls in Kenya are fully vaccinated against HPV.

Teachers also report positive outcomes. “It has impacted them positively; they prefer having the game most of the time, including weekends, hence cases of indiscipline or aimless movement are reduced,” said Teacher Wekesa of Beth Mugo Girls.

Madam Hilda of Nembu Girls added that the game has improved creativity, decision-making, and negotiation skills among her students.

To date, more than 2,000 copies have been distributed to schools free of charge, with endorsement from the Ministry of Education. Expansion plans include rolling the program out nationwide and developing a mobile version within the next 12 to 18 months.

“We strongly believe that when girls are equipped to handle pressure, they can make choices that keep them true to their values. That’s why we developed HOW TO FIND YOUR SKY – an interactive board game that gives girls the tools to practice real-life scenarios in a safe, engaging way.

“Here, girls role-play everyday scenarios, discuss their choices and learn from each other for proven, lasting positive results,” Edna Njeri, Project Lead, Sky Girls Kenya, weighed in.

Beyond the board game, SKY Girls is preparing to launch the fourth season of its popular teen drama series PAA in November. The new season will feature an all-female cast and promises to deliver fresh storylines that resonate with Kenya’s youth.