Help Fund My College

"In Africa, they say if you want to hide something from an African, put it in a book."

My mother made sure we opposed this saying by raising me to be a reader, a thinker, and a storyteller. Enrolling me in 826 Valencia, she sparked my love for books and creative writing—and that love has shaped who I am today. Thank you to my amazing teachers at 826 Valencia.

Hi, my name is Ryan Andre Wathigo Njuguna. I'm an 18-year-old senior at Lowell High School in San Francisco, graduating in June 2025. Though I was born in California, I was raised in Kenya from the age of 2, where I learned about community, resilience, and the power of stories. At 15, I returned to San Francisco, and in just three years, this city has given me a second chance to dream and helped me stay rooted in the cultural values that define my identity as a diverse, compassionate, and hardworking young man.

My Passion for Giving Back

San Francisco has enriched my life in countless ways—from the public libraries where I spent hours reading to the vibrant studios where I create music, and the mentors at 826 Valencia who helped me navigate life’s challenges and prepare for college. I want to honor this city by giving back, just as it has given me so much.

Why I Need Your Support

I'm on the verge of a major milestone: college. Yet, my journey is not without its challenges.

Financial Struggles: My family is facing severe financial constraints. My grandfather is awaiting heart bypass surgery, and my mother has become his full-time caregiver, leaving her unable to work.

Overcoming Adversity: I've experienced hardships firsthand—from walking two miles to school in Africa, studying by candlelight during power outages, to rereading the same books because new ones were simply out of reach.

Your support will help me cover:

College Tuition & Books – Making my dream of higher education a reality.

Basic Living Expenses – Easing the financial strain on my family during this difficult time.

Community Projects – Fueling my passion for photography, storytelling, and mentoring young kids.

How You Can Help

Donate: Every contribution, no matter the size, brings me closer to my goal.

Hire Me: I offer services in photography, music, and emceeing for events, fundraisers, and more.

Offer Internship Opportunities: I'm eager to gain experience in film, photography, media, or event hosting.

Share My Story: If you can’t donate, please help by spreading the word.

A Message to My Teachers & Friends

To all my teachers, mentors, and friends in San Francisco—thank you. Your kindness, guidance, and love have been my anchors. You have helped shape my resilience and inspired me to pay it forward. I believe that a world without boundaries is a world filled with love and humanity.

I truly appreciate your support, and I promise to honor it by inspiring others and giving back to the community that raised me. Thank you for believing in me and helping turn bitter limes into sweet lemonade!

Ways to Donate

GoFundMe: [Insert GoFundMe Link]

Zelle: [Insert Payment Info]

Venmo: Rynjuguna18

CashApp: $Rynjuguna18

PayPal: Rynjuguna18

Check: Write to Ryan Njuguna

Follow My Journey

Instagram: Forever.Ryan.06

Email: [email redacted]

Your support will help fund my college tuition and open the door to a future where I can use my talents in photography, music, acting, journalism, and storytelling to inspire change. Thank you for investing in my American dream and for believing in the power of education and community.