I joined the Board of Friends of Ngong Road in 2020. Having been a sponsor for over 15 years and supporting the education of three students (two of whom are currently in high school), I have wanted to visit Kenya for many years and finally had the opportunity in October to see the program in person.
The experience was incredible. The highlight, of course, was meeting our sponsored students, Dennis and Wycliffe. We had been communicating for years, but to finally meet in person was something special. One day we went to the Elephant Orphanage, spent an afternoon go-karting, and did some shopping at a local mall (all first for the boys). I visited their homes where I met some of their siblings and saw how they live. Seeing the slums up close and the challenges they endure is very different from anything I have seen in the United States. Despite the challenges, they are two wonderful, resilient young men, working hard on their studies and excited about the future. The support they are receiving from the program has and will continue to change the trajectory of their lives.
Paula (Friends of Ngong Road founder) and I ventured out of Nairobi with five alumni on a day safari to Lake Naivasha and the Crescent Island Game Sanctuary. Noah, a graduate of the program with whom I have been corresponding for years, was one of the alumni who joined us. It was incredible to walk the trails and see the variety of animals up close – no fences! Over lunch, the alumni shared how much the program changed their lives, not only with the opportunity to go to a great school but also with the additional support and training they received to help them be successful. They are so grateful for it all. Most of them have great jobs and are now living on their own away from the slums.
On the following day, I visited three of our focus schools to learn about the local education system and how each school prepares its students for success. The school visits inspired further discussions on ways to enhance educational opportunities for future students.
I also spent time with the staff, learning more about the work they do. In particular, I worked with the marketing and IT team, brainstorming ways to raise awareness and convey the uniqueness of the program to Kenyans. I was impressed by how organized, professional, and passionate the entire staff is. They are the ones that make it all happen and we are fortunate to have such a dedicated team.
It was a busy five days, but an experience I will never forget. I feel grateful to have had the opportunity and blessed with the engagement I had with so many wonderful people. Since my trip, our family has decided to sponsor another student, 10-year-old Mourine who had been waiting over a year for a sponsor. We are excited to be part of her journey.
