My name is Umu Farid, born and raised in Mombasa, Kenya. Watching my mother and sister teach in public schools full of children from very poor backgrounds, I knew I couldn't just watch anymore. In 2024, I started UMU RAFIKI VOLUNTEERS — "Rafiki" means friend, and that's what this has always been about: real friendship, not charity from a distance.

Today, we work with four schools and two orphanages in Bombolulu, Mombasa, reaching more than 500 children and 40 families — together with volunteers from over 13 countries. We've built boreholes bringing clean water to two schools, repainted classrooms and murals, renovated toilets, distributed shoes, uniforms, and hygiene essentials, and paid full school fees and boarding costs for two students moving on to high school. Every one of these moments started with someone believing it was possible.

The needs never really stop — a child outgrows their shoes, a classroom needs water, a bright student needs school fees to keep going. We're raising funds so we can keep saying yes, instead of having to say "not yet."

Every shilling goes directly to the children and communities we serve — clean water, uniforms, hygiene products, school supplies, freshly painted classrooms, meals, and school fees. There's no gift too small. This is my home, my community — and with your help, it can keep growing, one small act, one lasting bond, at a time.

— Umu Farid, Founder, UMU RAFIKI VOLUNTEERS