Mercy Wangari, Author at Friends of Ngong Road

A successful entrepreneur is a dreamer who never gives up, and James is living proof. As an alumnus of the program, James has transformed obstacles into stepping stones, thanks to a solid foundation of education and support.

Growing up, his family struggled to make ends meet, and paying for school was often a challenge. But in 2007, James joined the program, which lifted the education burden off his family’s shoulders. With school fees no longer a constant worry, he poured himself into his studies and started building a better future.

After completing high school, he received a diploma in Information and Communication Technology.

Then he further honed his tech skills at Shalom IT Centre, earning a CompTIA A+ certification, a credential that validates foundational skills in IT such as networking and cybersecurity fundamentals. Familiarity with IT gave him an upper hand later in his business. His career began at our program, where he volunteered in the computer lab before becoming a full-time lab assistant from 2016 to 2022.

In 2023, James took a bold leap, launching Chalo J Design and Printing, a business that brings his

creativity and tech to life. Alongside this venture, he co-runs a children’s clothing business with his spouse and continues to grow through new work experiences.

“The support I got from the program gave me the confidence to pursue my ideas and turn them into something real.” ~James

James’ story is a powerful reminder of what’s possible when dreams meet opportunity. With the continued backing of people like you, many more young lives can follow in his footsteps.

Thanks to your generous support, dreams that once felt distant are becoming real. Two of our recent graduates, Nashon and Susan, are examples of what’s possible when underprivileged children are empowered through education and support. Their stories reflect the impact of your support.

Nashon, Web Programmer:

Nashon joined the program in 2007 with a simple but powerful goal: to change the course of his life through education. After completing primary and secondary school, he pursued a diploma in Automotive Engineering, drawn by his love for mechanics and how things work.

His passion for technology continued to grow, leading him to make a bold shift into the world of programming. Today, Nashon is working as a web programmer, applying his skills to create innovative digital solutions and proving that with the right tools, anything is possible.

“The program gave me the opportunity to dream bigger. Education opened the door, and now I’m using technology to shape a future I once thought was out of reach.” ~Nashon

Susan, Field Officer:

Susan’s inspiring journey began in 2008 when she joined the Ngong Road Children Foundation (NRCF) program. Growing up in a family facing constant financial hardship, Susan was determined to rise above her circumstances. With the right support from NRCF, she completed both her primary and secondary education—an opportunity that changed the course of her life.

In 2021, Susan joined college to pursue a diploma in Community Development and Social Work, which she successfully completed and graduated from. Today, she works as an field Officer for the TechCraft program at CFK Africa. There, she empowers unemployed youth in Kibera, Nairobi’s largest informal settlement, by equipping them with digital skills and hope for a brighter future.

“I wouldn’t be where I am today without the program. The support I received gave me the confidence and tools to dream bigger and work harder,” says Susan. Rising from humble beginnings, she is now not only financially independent but also making a lasting impact in her community. Her story is a powerful reminder that with opportunity, determination, and your support, transformation is possible—for one child, one family, and an entire community.