Friends of Ngong Road

We empower Nairobi children living in poverty to transform their lives through education and support, leading to employment.

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One of Minnesota’s Largest Foundations Supports Friends of Ngong Road with a $200,000 grant

OCTOBER 20, 2025

Friends of Ngong Road (FoNR) is honored to announce a $200,000 grant from Margaret A. Cargill Philanthropies (MACP) in support of organizational capacity building. This generous support marks a meaningful milestone in our nearly twenty-year journey to empower children in Nairobi’s informal settlements through education, support, and opportunity.

MACP, one of the nation’s largest private philanthropies, is guided by a clear vision: to make a meaningful difference in the world through support for work in communities, the environment, arts and culture, disaster relief, and quality of life. Their support of Friends of Ngong Road affirms both the importance of our mission and the promise of our next chapter of growth.

For Friends, capacity building means strengthening the systems, infrastructure, and leadership that make our student-centered model sustainable. It’s the kind of support that helps us develop momentum while we build—ensuring that as we expand access to education, healthcare, and employment pathways, we do so with stability and sustainability.

This is the first time Friends of Ngong Road has received funding from a major institutional foundation, and it signals growing recognition of our proven results. Since 2006, Friends has served hundreds of students, and nearly three-quarters of our alumni are now employed. That track record—and the resilience of our students and staff—has created both measurable outcomes and deep, community-based change.

We are deeply grateful to Margaret A. Cargill Philanthropies for believing in our mission and helping to strengthen its foundation. Their partnership represents not only a financial commitment but a powerful vote of confidence in what Friends of Ngong Road stands for: that every child, no matter where they begin, deserves the chance to learn, grow, and thrive.

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The Student Success Journey of Kimberly

Kimberly is a young girl with big dreams and a generous heart. Her student success journey is one of determination and hope, made possible through the support of our program.

She comes from a background where financial challenges made access to quality education difficult. However, with the help of our program, Kimberly received the support she needed  not just financially, but also emotionally and academically. This support helped her find a new path and a chance to shine.

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Kimberly successfully completed her primary education and made a smooth transition into high school. This was a major milestone for both her and her family. Today, she proudly stands in her final year of high school, one step closer to achieving her dream of becoming a mechanical engineer.

Driven by a strong personal goal to “be better and achieve the impossible,” Kimberly continues to rise above every challenge. She studies hard, stays focused, and believes in the power of education to transform her life. Her teachers often describe her as dedicated and always willing to push beyond her limits.

In addition to her academic success, Kimberly is also passionate about sports. She recently stood out at her school by winning the athletics competition. Her victory in sports reflects the same determination and resilience she brings to her studies. Whatever she does, she gives it her best.

Every step Kimberly takes is a powerful reminder of what’s possible when opportunity, support, and belief come together. Behind her success is the unwavering support of our program  and the belief that every student deserves a chance at success.

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Educational Support Led Timothy to Entrepreneurship


Our happiest moments come when we witness the seeds we planted bear fruit. We take in children who lack a sustainable way of living and give them the tools, support, and opportunities they need to succeed. Timothy is one such story  from a young boy facing uncertainty to a confident, independent entrepreneur earning a stable income and fully supporting his family. 

entrepreneur
entrepreneur

Timothy completed his primary education successfully and smoothly transitioned into high school. Afterwards, he joined the Wildlife Research and Training Institute in Kenya, where he pursued and earned a diploma in Environmental Management.

Throughout his journey, both in and out of school, we supported Timothy with life skills training and development programs  including our well-known ‘Summer Camp’, where he learned leadership skills. Additionally he participated in computer training to enhance his digital literacy and career readiness. These experiences played a key role in shaping the confident, capable young man he is today.

Currently, Timothy is working at Platinum Art World and Tints, specializing in car accessories, vehicle branding, car identity services, and window tinting.

“The support I received from the program changed my life to become an entrepreneur ,” Says Timothy.

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Student Sponsorship Achievement Story: Abishag’s Journey.

Meet Abishag, a bright young girl who joined our organization in 2021. Today, she is a powerful student sponsorship achievement story, showing how access to educational support, financial assistance, and mentorship can transform a student’s life. Abishag’s journey is an example of how sponsorship programs empower underprivileged students to discover their potential and achieve their dreams.

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Over the years, she has blossomed in both academics and personal growth. With the consistent financial support provided by the program, she was able to stay in school, access learning materials, and even contribute to some of the basic needs at home. This support allowed her to focus on her education without the constant worry of financial strain.

Beyond material support, the mentorship and guidance offered through the program helped her gain confidence and build strong life skills. She takes part in extracurricular activities in school, in the badminton club. Through the wins and loses she has gained experiences that allowed her to step into her full potential.

Today, she is thriving. She’s working hard towards her academic goals and is passionate about giving back to her community. Her story is a powerful testament to what can happen when compassionate individuals and organizations invest in the future of a child.

You too, can become part of the story-makers by offering student sponsorship. With this their achievement story is because of your contribution or donations. Together, let’s help more children find hope for their future through education.

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Support Girls Education Help More Students Like Darline Thrive

Darline is a bright and determined young girl. She has come a long way thanks to our program that works to support girls’ education. Today, she is in her final year of high school.

support girls education

Growing up in a poor community where many children struggle to stay in school. Darline faced many challenges. Her family could not afford school fees, and she often lacked basic supplies. But with the support of our program, she received everything she needed to stay in school from tuition and uniforms to learning materials and mentorship.

Darline has made good use of this opportunity. She is passionate about helping others and is an active member of St John Ambulance, a charity that helps people by teaching first aid and giving medical help at events or in emergencies. She also enjoys the arts and takes part in her school’s drama club. Her dream is to become an interior designer, where she can use her creativity to design beautiful spaces that improve people’s lives.

Her teachers describe her as focused, helpful, and a natural leader. She inspires other girls in her school to stay motivated and dream big. Darline’s story is just one example of the impact you make when you support education for girls. There are many more students like her, full of talent and potential, just waiting for the same opportunity.