Back to My Roots, Giving Back to Kenya

This December, I'll be heading back to Kenya for the first time in almost seven years.

I'm really looking forward to spending time with family, catching up with old friends and revisiting some familiar places. But I've also been thinking about how I can use this trip to give back to the country that has taught me so much.

I've decided to raise funds for three initiatives in Kenya that are doing meaningful work in their communities.

1. Kenya Community Centre for Learning (KCCL) - Inclusive Education

This one is particularly close to my heart.

My cousin has cerebral palsy and faces significant challenges in his everyday life. He attended a special school when he was younger and continues to receive various therapies. Having grown up seeing his journey, I've come to appreciate how much of a difference access to the right education, therapy and support can make, not just for the child but for their family too.

KCCL supports children with diverse learning needs, recognising that every child learns and develops differently.

I'd love to contribute towards giving more children access to these opportunities.

2. PadMad - Tackling Period Poverty

Something as natural as having a period shouldn't stop a girl from going to school or participating in everyday life.

PadMad is working to address period poverty, reduce the stigma around menstruation and improve access to menstrual hygiene resources for girls and women. It's something many of us take for granted, yet it continues to be a challenge for so many.

3. Umoja - Access to Clean Water

For some women and girls in Kenya, collecting water means walking long distances, often along unsafe routes. Built in resistance to extreme patriarchy and harmful traditions.

Umoja is raising $10,000 to drill a deep water well that will provide water for drinking, hygiene and farming. Something as basic as having clean water closer to home can make an enormous difference to everyday life.

❤️ I'd love your support!

I'm hoping to raise as much as I can for these three initiatives before my trip in December.

Whether it's $5, $20 or whatever you're comfortable contributing, it all adds up.

And if donating isn't possible, I'd really appreciate you sharing this page with your friends, family or networks.

Kenya will always be a part of who I am, and this feels like a meaningful way to reconnect with my roots while doing something positive for the communities there.

Thank you for being part of it.

Asante sana! ❤️