At Kyra, we believe in the power of education to uplift and empower. Our workshops offer a diverse range of learning experiences—from practical skills like money management to creative outlets like poetry and gardening.
In today’s post, we’ll explore how these programs help women build confidence, achieve their goals, and make positive changes in their lives.
Practical Skill Building
At Kyra, practical skill-building is at the heart of empowering women to take control of their lives with confidence.
Our workshops each cover different essential life skills, and each are designed to boost independence and resilience:
- Money Management and Budgeting: Our financial literacy programs help members master budgeting and make informed financial decisions, enhancing financial independence.
- ICT Skills with Anita: Anita offers personalised, one-on-one IT sessions covering programs like Zoom, email, and applications like Word, PowerPoint, and Excel.
While these skills are valuable in professional settings, they also help members in their personal lives. Imagine how reassuring it is to be able to Zoom call a loved one, or confidently arrange GP appointments over email—these skills make a real difference.
- English and Writing Support: These sessions focus on reading comprehension and practical writing skills for everyday life, employment, and further education. This is a lifeline for those whose access to formal education has been more limited, a group that’s too often forgotten.
- Cooking and Nutrition: Our cooking workshops provide practical kitchen skills and meal planning guidance, focusing on healthy, budget-friendly eating.
These courses, led by our wonderful Sally, help transform food and meal prep from a potential source of stress into something enjoyable and uplifting. How we eat and cook impacts so much more than nutrition; and our members leave with the confidence to prepare a meal for loved ones, or simply savour cooking for themselves.
Creative and Fun Education
We also a range of creative and fun skill building activities. These creative programs offer women the chance to explore their passions, build confidence, and enjoy a safe space for self-expression:
- Poetry Group: Every other Saturday, members come together over Zoom to share poems—new, old, or self-written. Members can read their own poems, or just listen and enjoy.
- Creative Writing for Wellness: Starting again in February 2025, this six-week group is led by a Consultant Clinical Psychologist, focusing on boosting emotional wellness through writing.
Sessions are designed for women dealing with trauma, mental health challenges, or those simply interested in self-discovery.
- Gardening for Well-being: Our gardening groups connect members with nature, enhancing well-being and teamwork. Last month, members planted bulbs with Shamim from York Museums Trust, preparing York’s Museum Gardens for a vibrant spring.
- Kyra Voices: Our choir group is for those with a passion for music and singing. Every other Thursday evening, members gather for relaxed, uplifting sessions where everyone can join in—regardless of musical ability.
The Impact of Learning and Growth at Kyra
Kyra’s educational programs are creating lasting, positive change, helping women gain essential skills, find employment, and even pursue further education.
If you’re a Kyra member, you can book these activities by checking our monthly Newsletter, or you can see what’s on by checking our Activity Timetable.
Get Involved
Through our colourful range of workshops and classes, we empower women to grow and flourish.
If you’d like to support this mission, consider donating, or even volunteering to run a new session. If that sounds up your alley, email briony@kyra.org.uk to learn more.
Together, we can keep building a supportive community for women.
