Tyler is 10 years old. He was born on 25/12/2011. He is in grade 3 at Nelson Mandela Academy. The school is 5 minutes walk from home, hence he gets from home at 6:55 am to be at school at 7:00 am. Tyler loves being in school. However, sometimes he is not able to due to School fee arrears thus has to stay home as parents hustle for school fees.
He and his family live in the slums of Kawangware. He lives with his father, mother, and two younger brothers. They live in a single-room house made out of iron sheets and timber. The house has been subdivided by curtains. The house serves as the living room, kitchen and bedroom all together. The house is furnished with one old Seat, a Table, a Bed, and a kitchen space. The parents share the bed while the children utilize a mattress that is spread on the floor.
Tyler’s father works as a motorcyclist where he earns a living for the family. The mother works as a casual laborer, she washes clothes for other people, fetches water for other households to make ends meet. It’s been hard for both of them, especially after the corona outbreak for the family to survive. However, they have to survive on the little they get and are content, with hope for a better tomorrow.
The house is connected to electricity which they pay via tokens, where Tyler is able to do his evening studies .they use the new Safaricom m -gas to make meals which they pay via tokens. They buy water for domestic use at a water vendor at 5ksh per 20litre jerrican.
The environment however is not conducive for child upbringing, the plot is squeezed and untidy hence uncomfortable for children to play around. They share a bathroom and a pit latrine with several other neighbors who also live in the same plot.
Tyler does well in school. He exceeds expectations in his recent exams and really loves being in school. His favorite subject is English. He would love to be a traffic Police when he is of age. He loves playing basketball and football too. Tyler is optimistic that one day he will achieve his dream and make the best out of himself. His parents too are hopeful that the future will be bright and that with the help of the organization Tyler’s dream will come to pass.