Support Brian’s Dream: Help a Young Kenyan Scholar Pursue Cybersecurity Studies in Australia

Safina Initiative is honored to share the story of Brian Koech (Rotuk) — a young man whose determination, resilience, and courage continue to inspire everyone who meets him.

Brian was born and raised in a humble family in Kapsabet, Kenya. From an early age, he faced financial hardship, but he remained committed to education as his pathway out of poverty. He attended local village schools for both his primary and secondary education, excelling despite limited resources.

His hard work earned him admission to Maseno University, where he began a Bachelor of Science in Geospatial Information Science with IT. However, in 2022, during his third year, severe financial challenges forced him to drop out. With both parents unemployed, paying tuition became impossible. One year later, with the support of his community, he returned to university and proudly graduated in December 2024. Unfortunately, like many young graduates in Kenya, he has been unable to secure employment due to a highly competitive job market.

Your support will help Brian re-write this story.

After researching opportunities that could open doors for his future, he applied to schools abroad — and was accepted to pursue a Master’s degree in Cybersecurity at The Institute of International Studies (TIIS) in Melbourne, Australia. This is a life-changing opportunity that could uplift not only Brian, but also his entire family and community. Brian now needs support for housing and basic upkeep as he prepares to begin his studies.

Amount Needed: $3,500 USD (Ksh. 450,000)

Your contribution — no matter the amount — will help Brian take the next step toward a promising future in cybersecurity, a field with global opportunities that can transform his life.

HOW TO HELP

For supporters outside Kenya:

• CashApp: $jenkilel

• Venmo: @jennifer-Kilel

• Zelle: [email redacted]

For supporters in Kenya:

• MPESA: 0722172683 (Brian Koech)

• Email: [email redacted]

Safina Initiative – “Lifting Lives, One Story at a Time.”