Every year on June 1st, Kenyans celebrate Madaraka Day, one of the country’s most important national holidays. The word “Madaraka” comes from Swahili, meaning “power” or “authority,” and it marks the moment in 1963 when Kenya gained internal self-rule from British colonial rule, similar to how Americans commemorate the Fourth of July as a declaration of independence.

For Kenyans, Madaraka Day is not just a public holiday, it’s a symbol of freedom, resilience, and national pride. It represents the first major step toward full independence and the right for Kenyans to govern their own political, economic, and social affairs.

Across the country, people gather for celebrations led by the President, often held in large stadiums. These events include reflections on Kenya’s journey to self-governance, military parades by the Kenya Defence Forces showcasing strength and discipline, as well as vibrant cultural performances featuring traditional music, dance, poetry, and drama. It’s a beautiful display of Kenya’s diverse heritage, much like the cultural showcases you might see on U.S. Independence Day.

From colonial rule to self-determination, Madaraka Day stands as a reminder of Kenya’s courageous journey toward freedom and the power of people coming together to shape their own future.

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 pursued a diploma in ICT at NIBS College, then honed his tech skills at Shalom IT Centre, earning a CompTIA A+ certification. 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, Kyalo 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 NRCF 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 Gislaider, are examples of what’s possible when underprivileged children are empowered through education and support. Their stories reflect the impact of your support to them.

Nashon:

Nahashon joined the NRCF 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, Nahashon is working as a programming, applying his skills to create innovative digital solutions and proving that with the right tools, anything is possible.

“NRCF 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.” ~Nahashon

Gslaider:

Gislaider’s journey with NRCF began in 2009. After successfully completing her primary and secondary education, she followed her passion for helping others and earned a diploma in Social Work and Community Development.

With a heart for service, Gislaider has volunteered with organizations like the Rotary Club and the National Council for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD), gaining experience in community work. She currently works as a cashier and waitress to support herself and her siblings, while continuing to seek opportunities to grow in her field.

“Being part of NRCF gave me the foundation to believe in myself. I want to use my education to uplift others—just as I was uplifted.” ~Gislaider

With your continued support, students like Nashon and Gslaider are not just reaching for the future, they’re building it.