Karibu Magazine 18thJuly 2025

THE 1OTH ANNIVERSARY EDITION 27TH JUNE 2025

KARIBU

KENYANS IN THE UK MAGAZINE

“A Decade of Celebration

2015–2025”

KNOW YOUR

AMBASSADOR

PARENTING

FIRST BLACK FEMALE

MAYOR, DUNSTABLE

HISTORIC KENYAN

VICTORY

BREWED HER

WAY TO THE TOP

NYBOMA – LIVE IN

LONDON, AUGUST

INSIDE

YOUTH FEATURE

WELFARE FEATURE

FAMILY FEATURE

DIASPORA SPECIAL

COMMUNITY FEATURE

AND MORE...

2

EDITORIAL

2025


— 2015–2025”

“A decade of Kenyan culture, music &

community in the UK”

It would be right to say that Diaspora Kenyans in the UK have come of age.

As individuals and as a community, we have made enormous progress

and succeeded despite the challenges and the many odds of living in the

Diaspora. The future holds great prospects for us, our children and those

who come after us, if we keep aiming high.

That said, it’s also essential that we have a structured way to both celebrate

our achievements and learn from one another in those areas important

to us as Kenyans in the UK. We must continuously endeavour to seek

to better our social and economic well-being here in the UK and

beyond. What better way than having a platform from which to do

so?

This is why we have both the Kenya and “Friends in the Park” event

and the “Karibu KUK Magazine” - two sister platforms designed

specifically to occupy and fill that critical gap. Both the event (10 yrs

old today) and the magazine (9 yrs old today) have been an annual

joint platform whose primary function is to inform, motivate,

transform, entertain, educate and reflect in the best light the

diverse experiences, life-walks and social interests of Kenyans

across the UK. The magazine is a time capsule that catalogues

events, achievements made by Kenyans in the UK over the

years, as well as highlighting the challenges Kenyans in the UK

face, and how to scale them down in different creative ways.

The Karibu KUK Magazine also provides a historical timeline of

our mother country, Kenya, as well as current affairs from the 47

different Kenyan counties. This way, Kenyans abroad can better

understand the lessons the past can provide to help improve and

secure our country’s future.

Even as we celebrate the 10th Anniversary of Kenya and Friends

in the Park and 9 years of this publication, we continue to seek as

far as possible to be balanced, objective and promote impartially

that which advances our progress as Kenyans in the UK. We aim to

give both prominence and publicity to those who have succeeded

in life as well as those seeking to do so. We do not affiliate ourselves

with any political group or ideology, and we simply and strictly

promote what’s best for Kenyans in the UK.

We welcome you all on board, and we trust that this shall be a long and

happy partnership as we step into another decade.

Yours Always,

Chief Editor and Publisher

3

CONTENTS

» P.12 Sally Kimondo

» P.16 From Lectern to Diplomatic

Podium, Bishop Dr. Joseph Warui

as Deputy Head of Mission, UK

» P.30 Space for Kenya diaspora UK

» P.52 The Unseen

Strengths of Carol Ciku

of Leicester, UK

» P.28 Minority

within Minority

» P.14-15 Anjela Cook

» P.58 Nyamumbo

Kahawa 1893

4

» P.18 Parenting In The

Digital Age

» P.46-47 The Inspiring

Story of Doreen Murugi

» 36 Nyboma –

Live in London,

August

» P.26 Sebsatian-

London Mrathon

2025

EDITORIAL TEAM

Editor in Chief/publisher:

Lydia Tett Olet.

Tel: +447853207075

info.karibu@gmail.com

Head of research :

Baraza J Namunyu

Tel: +447783662746

jnamunyu@gmail.com

Sub editor:

Lydia Jepchirchir Smith

Tel: +44 7446 082958

Graphics & design:

mrkeya (Noah Keya)

mrkeya@gmail.com

+447401307994

Writer:

Kimotho Ngugi

Tel: +254 724 806802

sales.karibu@gmail.com

10TH ANNIVERSARY EDITION | JULY 2025 5

6 10TH ANNIVERSARY EDITION | JULY 2025

SPECIAL FEATURE

BISHOP DR.

JOSEPH WARUI

The Deputy Head of Mission at the Kenyan Embassy in London,

has embarked on a remarkable

journey from the pulpit to the

diplomatic arena. Appointed by

President William Ruto, Bishop

Warui brings a unique blend

of faith and diplomacy to his

new role. Before his diplomatic

appointment, Bishop Warui served

as the Presiding Bishop of House

of Divine Solution International

Ministries (HODSIM) and chaired

the Global Alliance of Churches

Association (GACA) in Europe.

His transition from religious

leadership to diplomacy has been

met with admiration, highlighting

his captivating charisma and

unwavering faith.

Background

Bishop Warui’s theological

background and experience as a

preacher offer a fresh perspective

in the diplomatic field. His values

of compassion, justice, and

empathy are expected to shape

his approach, enabling him to

forge meaningful connections and

address global issues effectively.

Kenyans in the diaspora have

expressed their excitement and

pride over his appointment, seeing

it as a significant step for one of

their own to champion Kenya’s

interests on the international

stage. Bishop Warui’s story is a

testament to faith, passion, and

the pursuit of excellence, breaking

barriers and defying expectations

in his new role.

Early Life and Education

Born and raised in Kenya,

Bishop Warui’s early life was

marked by a deep commitment

to his faith and community. He

pursued theological studies,

earning a doctorate in theology,

which laid the foundation for

his future endeavours. His

academic achievements were

complemented by his practical

experience in ministry, where

he honed his skills in leadership,

communication, and community

building.

Ministry and Leadership

As the Presiding Bishop of House

of Divine Solution International

Ministries, Bishop Warui led a

vibrant congregation, inspiring

many with his sermons and

community initiatives. His

leadership extended beyond

the church, as he became

Chairman of the Global Alliance of

Churches Association in Europe.

In this capacity, he worked to

unite various church leaders

and organisations, fostering

collaboration and mutual support.

Transition to Diplomacy

Bishop Warui’s transition to

diplomacy was driven by his

desire to serve his country on a

broader scale. His appointment

as Deputy Head of Mission at the

Kenyan Embassy in London was

a testament to his leadership

qualities and his ability to navigate

complex international relations.

His background in theology and

ministry provided him with a

unique perspective, allowing him

to approach diplomatic challenges

with empathy and a focus on

justice.

CONT- PAGE 16


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10TH ANNIVERSARY EDITION | JULY 2025

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WHATSAPP OR CALL - LIZ

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VISIT US ON

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EMAIL US AT

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EDITORIAL FEATURE

A NEW CHAPTER FOR

DUNSTABLE, ENGLAND

Sally Kimondo, Chairperson of LDSCF, Is Elected as the First

Black Female Mayor A Historic Appointment

A Historic Appointment

Sally G. Kimondo, Chairperson of

LDSKCF, has been elected the first

female Black Mayor of Dunstable,

England. In a momentous step for

Dunstable, Councillor Sally Kimondo

has been appointed Mayor for the

2025/2026 term. Her appointment

marks a significant milestone in the

town’s history and for Kenya. Mayor

Kimondo brings with her a wealth

of experience as a senior social

worker and a passionate advocate

for community cohesion, youth

empowerment, and cultural inclusion.

Having made the UK her home

after migrating over a few decades

ago, Mayor Kimondo has faced and

overcome challenges such as domestic

violence and discrimination. These

personal experiences have shaped

her unwavering commitment to public

service and social justice.

Building Bridges Through Community

Mayor Kimondo is also the founder

and current chairperson of the

Luton and Dunstable Social and

Cultural Foundation (LDSKCF), an

organisation dedicated to fostering

unity, cultural exchange for Kenyans

and the local host community, whilst

addressing youth-related issues and

challenges such as knife crime. Her

leadership is rooted in the belief that

multiculturalism is not just a feature

of modern society but a strength to

be celebrated. “Every unique culture

enriches us,” she affirms, “and by

embracing these differences, we foster

a more inclusive community.” Her

vision is one of collaboration, where

every resident feels heard, respected,

and valued. She emphasises that her

role is not to change people’s way of

life but to honour and support it.

Celebrating Diversity and Inclusion

Mayor Kimondo is inviting the

community to participate in a series

of events that celebrate Dunstable’s

diversity. These include the inaugural

Pride Parade at Central Bedfordshire

College and the annual Black History

Month celebrations. These events are

designed to bring people together,

promote understanding, and highlight

the richness of the town’s cultural

fabric. She also extends her support to

local charities, notably CHUMS Hospice

at Home Volunteers in Dunstable and

Houghton Regis. Fundraising events

are planned throughout the year,

and residents are encouraged to get

involved.

Empowering the Next Generation

A key focus of Mayor Kimondo’s

term is youth empowerment. She is

championing initiatives like the “Save a

Life” card, which educates and equips

young people to address the growing

concern of knife crime. Her goal is to

expand this program across Dunstable,

ensuring that young residents are not

only protected but also empowered

to lead change in their communities.

“Our youth are our future,” she states.

“We must invest in them, guide them,

and believe in their potential.”

Honouring the Past, Shaping the

Future

As Dunstable Town Council celebrates

its 40th anniversary, Mayor Kimondo

encourages residents to reflect on the

town’s history while looking forward

to a vibrant future. She expresses

gratitude to former mayors and

current councillors for their dedication

and collaboration, particularly

acknowledging Councillors Hollick,

Jones, and O’Riordan for their support

and guidance. She also congratulates

Deputy Mayor Councillor Artwell and

looks forward to working alongside

him in the service of the community.

A Personal Note of Gratitude

Mayor Kimondo’s journey is deeply

personal. Her sister, Jules, will serve

as her consort, and Julian Richards of

COM Church will be her chaplain. She

expresses heartfelt thanks to them for

their support during her mayoral term.

Her message to the community is one

of kindness, empathy, and mutual

respect. She urges residents to remain

considerate, even in disagreement,

and to seek solutions through dialogue

rather than division.

Reflection

Mayor Sally Kimondo’s story is a

powerful reminder of the strength

found in diversity, resilience, and

service. Her leadership is not just about

holding office—it’s about building

a legacy of inclusion, compassion,

and progress. Her journey from

migrant to mayor is a testament to

what is possible when communities

embrace every voice and every story.

As Dunstable moves forward under

her guidance, residents are invited to

reflect on their role in shaping a town

that is welcoming, united, and thriving.

A leadership rooted in empathy

and lived experience can transform

communities. Mayor Kimondo’s story

teaches us that embracing diversity,

empowering youth, and fostering

unity are not just ideals—they are

actionable paths to a better future.

By working together, listening to one

another, and celebrating what makes

each of us unique, we can build

stronger, more inclusive communities.


PHOTO CREDIT: SALLY G. KIMONDO


Photos: Angela Cook (Karanja)

14


MEETING AND

MARRYING MY FRIEND

THE STORY OF ANGELA (KARANJA) COOK

It all began on an ordinary Sunday

that would eventually become

extraordinary in every way. After

attending church that morning, I

was going on a first date with the

man I had been chatting to online

for roughly a week. As I drove

towards my parking space, the

moment felt serendipitous and

familiar, as if life had quietly been

preparing for both of us to meet.

He had arrived earlier and came

to my car to open the door for me

and introduced himself as Matt.

My first thought was, “Wow! I

love your curly hair!” (but I didn’t

tell him that). I asked him, “How

did you know it was me…” He

said, “Because you looked just as

I envisioned you, only so much

better in person!” He asked if he

could hug me, and I said yes. He

gave me a big hug. He then asked

if he could hold my hand, and

I said yes… and that’s how we

walked into the restaurant for our

date! That was the beginning of

deep friendship, a liking, a love

so gentle like a melody - steady,

comforting, and full of ease.

On our first date, we shared

stories, hopes, and dreams,

discovering layers of each other

that felt as though they’d always

been meant to intertwine.

There was a spark, subtle but

undeniable, that made every

moment together feel a little

brighter. We finished our meal

in the restaurant, and hopped to

a pub, and then after we'd

been there a while, we hopped

to another. We didn’t want the

evening to end--- but by the end

of that evening, we felt like we’d

known each other for a lifetime.

When Matt got back to his house,

he first texted and then called me

to ask me out on another date.

I want to say the rest is history,

but hold on a moment… to do

that would be denying you the

juicy bits! As time passed, our

friendship grew into something

deeper. But here’s

what’s interesting!

The relationship I

was experiencing

is something I

had written down

in my goal book.

There’s something

about writing

dreams down. I was

experiencing my

significant other just

as I had envisioned

him in that goal

book.

Then one day he asked if we

could be boyfriend and girlfriend,

and I said yes! I said yes because

I liked him and loved him, and

he was fitting so well into the

image I had in my goalbook for

a partner. All of him, his values

about life, his physical health, his

On the 28th of June

2024, surrounded by

intentionally handpicked

people who mean the

most to us, we pledged

our vows to each other

with such big smiles,

yet with tears of our

genuine commitment to

each other.

psychological health, his financial

health, his social health, his sexual

health…Then this friendship to an

intentional partnership. We began

to share more of our lives as we

both realised our connection was

something rare and extraordinary.

It wasn’t just companionship;

it was partnership. It’s at this

point that I introduced him to my

daughter, who was around 7 then.

After this first introduction, my

daughter said to me, “Mum, he

fits the description of the person

you’ve written down as your

partner.” I smiled!

A few years into our

relationship, I got

the rock … yes! A

beautiful platinum

and diamond

engagement ring.

Now this is the part

that people begin

to feel like, “Aww…

you are bragging…”

No, I’m not

bragging. I’m telling

my story, and in

fact, I’m telling you

the fulfilment of my

dream. Remember,

I had written down that I want

someone who is financially

healthy? Again, the power of

writing down your vision.

The proposal and the ring were

somewhat strange yet sweet!

Matt did not go down on his

CONT- PAGE 41


SPECIAL FEATURE

FROM- PAGE 7

THE DEPUTY HEAD OF MISSION

AT THE KENYAN EMBASSY IN

LONDON

Impact on the Diaspora

Kenyans in the diaspora have expressed their excitement

and pride over Bishop Warui’s appointment. His presence

in a significant diplomatic role is seen as a representation

of their interests and aspirations. Bishop Warui’s ability to

connect with people on a personal level has made him a

beloved figure among the Kenyan community in London and

beyond.

Diplomatic Achievements

Since his appointment, Bishop Warui has been involved in

various diplomatic initiatives aimed at strengthening Kenya’s

ties with the United Kingdom. His efforts have included

promoting trade and investment, advocating for the rights

of Kenyans abroad, and fostering cultural exchange. His

approach to diplomacy, rooted in his values of compassion

and justice, has earned him respect and admiration from his

peers and counterparts.

Vision for the Future

Looking ahead, Bishop Warui envisions a future where

diplomacy and faith can work hand in hand to address

global challenges. He believes that his background

in theology provides him with the tools to approach

international relations with a focus on ethical considerations

and human dignity. His vision includes promoting peace,

justice, and mutual understanding on the global stage.

Reflection

Bishop Dr. Joseph Warui’s journey teaches us the power

of faith and passion in overcoming barriers and achieving

excellence. His story encourages us to embrace our unique

backgrounds and values, using them to make a positive

impact in any field we choose to pursue. It reminds us that

our diverse experiences and perspectives can be valuable

assets in any endeavour, and that with dedication and faith,

we can break barriers and defy expectations. Bishop Dr.

Joseph Warui’s transition from the pulpit to diplomacy is

a remarkable story of faith, leadership, and the pursuit of

excellence. His journey serves as an inspiration to many,

demonstrating that with passion and commitment, we can

achieve great things and make a meaningful impact in the

world.

All photos: Bishop Dr. Joseph Warui



— 2015–2025”



“Ten years, countless memories,

one shared story.”

The Kenya High

Commission in London

was established in

1963 to pursue Kenya’s

national

interest in the United

Kingdom. The

diplomatic mission

in London is also

accredited to the

International Maritime

Organization and the

Commonwealth of

Nations. Kenya and the

UK enjoy

cordial relations,

and the mission’s

mandate is to forge

closer relations

between the people

of Kenya and the

people of the United

Kingdom in pursuit of

deeper bilateral and

multilateral

cooperation in trade

and investments,

culture, science and

technology as well as

other fields for mutual

benefit.

LOCATION

45 Portland Place,

Marylebone,

London, W1B 1AS

Phone: 020 7636 2371

Passport & ID

Opening Times

Monday - Friday

09:30 - 12:30

(Appointment only)

Chancery Opening

Times:

Monday - Friday

09:00 - 13:00

14:00 - 17:00

General Enquiries

info@kenyahighcom.

org.uk

Phone:

020 7636 2371

Consular Enquiries

Email:

immigration@

kenyahighcom.org.uk

Phone:

020 7636 2371

10TH 10TH ANNIVERSARY EDITION | JULY | JULY 2025 2025 17

17

FAMILY

PARENTING IN THE DIGITAL AGE

INSIGHTS WITH ADOLESCENT PSYCHOLOGIST

& PARENTING TEENS EXPERT ANGELA COOK

The modern parenting landscape is evolving

rapidly, and nowhere is this more evident than

in the challenges facing today’s teenagers.

Angela Cook, a Banbury-based psychologist

and expert on parenting adolescents, recently

joined Adam Ball on BBC Radio Oxfordshire

to discuss the challenges of today’s parenting

and the issues highlighted in the hit Netflix

series Adolescence. The show has sparked

conversations around the pressures and

dangers of growing up in a hyper-connected

world.

Let’s address several critical parenting topics:

Screen Time and Digital Balance

Angela highlighted the importance of supporting

teenagers in managing their screen time. She

18


emphasised the risks of being

swept away by the “sea of

unmanaged screen time” and

urged parents to engage in

open conversations about digital

habits.

Bullying and Misogyny

The conversation delved into

the rising prevalence of bullying

and the subtle ways misogyny

is learned and perpetuated in

online spaces. Angela stressed

the need for parents to teach

empathy and model respectful

and kind behaviour.

Redefining Safety

The Netflix series Adolescence

explores the shocking story of a

13-year-old good student who

commits murder, leaving parents

to grapple with the changing

definition of “good” and “safe”

safety.” Angela noted that while

past generations measured

safety by physical presence,

today’s digital interactions

demand deeper inquiry into

teenagers’ thoughts, values, and

online influences. She noted

that there is an emergence

of teen convergence culture.

Meaning, the thinking of your kid

here in Oxfordshire is similar to

a kid same age in Oklahoma,

USA, Ottawa, Canada, Osaka,

Japan…and anywhere else

in the world. And our young

people are communicating in a

language that we adults have

absolutely no idea of. Hence,

the importance of entering into

their world.

The Impact of Trauma

Angela underscored the role of

unprocessed trauma in shaping

parenting styles. She shared

a poignant example of how a

father’s unresolved emotional

wounds inadvertently led to

cycles of emotional harm within

his family. Breaking such cycles

requires introspection and

healing.

Practical Advice for Parents

Angela offered actionable steps

for parents to connect with their

teenagers:

1. Get Curious, not furious,

and combative: Approach

conversations with genuine

curiosity so as to appeal to

the teenagers and avoid

shutting teens down.

2. Learn from Your Teen:

Become a researcher of

their digital world, learning

from your teen and listening

without judgment.

3. Teach Critical Thinking:

Encourage teens to question

what is being presented and

whether this aligns with their

values.

4. Model Safe Relationships:

Discuss openly and

encourage exploration

of topics such as abuse,

grooming, and manipulation

and bravely share examples

5. Build Confidence and

Connection: Foster strong

relationships and validate

your teenager offline to

help them avoid unhealthy

validation.

Parenting is Leadership

Angela emphasised that

parenting is a leadership role

requiring humility and selfawareness.

She encouraged

parents to reflect on their own

childhood experiences, heal

from past trauma, and then

adapt to the changing world

their teenagers inhabit. The

discussion left listeners with a

profound takeaway: parenting

in the digital age requires

genuine presence without

prying, honesty, and adaptability,

parental reflection, and own

healing. Loving our children is

not enough—we must also be

kind and courageous so we can

equip ourselves with the skills

to guide them through a fastpaced,

interconnected world.

This is a critical dialogue that

serves as a wake-up call for

all parents because no one is

invincible. Parents are leaders,

and it’s time we step out of our

comfort zones of resignation and

helplessness with our teenagers

and engage deeply with our

children. Confident Quality

Presence is one of the most

essential skills we all need to

guide our teenagers victoriously

through this parenting journey.

For those seeking further

guidance, Angela invites parents

to her upcoming masterclass,

“How to Raise Highly Effective

& Mentally Healthy Teenagers

Without Losing Your Mind.”

Angela can be contacted via:

● Phone:+44 1295 368042

● Email: angie@

raisingremarkableteenagers.

com

● Website:www.


A LEGAL BRIDGE FOR THE

AFRICAN DIASPORA IN THE UK

RONALD ONYANGO

Ronald Onyango is a dual-qualified

legal professional whose career spans

two continents. As a UK Solicitor and

an Advocate of the High Court of

Kenya, he brings a unique blend of

international legal expertise to his

work. Based in the United Kingdom,

Ronald is the Managing Director of

Ronald Onyango Consultancy, a firm

that specialises in both personal and

business immigration law.

Expertise In Immigration Law

Ronald’s legal practice is rooted in

helping individuals and businesses

navigate the often complex UK

immigration system. His firm handles

a wide range of immigration matters,

including:

●

●

●

●

●

●

●

●

●

●

Skilled Worker Visas & Self-

Sponsorships

Sponsor Licence Applications,

Compliance, Suspension &

Revocation

Innovator Founder Visas & Global

Talent Visas

Family, Spouse, and Dependant

Visas

Domestic Abuse and Sole

Responsibility Applications

Human Rights & Private Life

Applications

EU Settlement Scheme (EUSS)

Settlement (ILR) & British

Citizenship

Appeals, Administrative Reviews,

Immigration Detention & Bail

Visit, Student (Tier 4), and Graduate

Visas

Ronald is known for his ability to

offer tailored, solution-focused legal

advice. He understands that no two

clients are the same, and he takes

time to craft bespoke strategies

that reflect each individual’s unique

circumstances and goals.

Serving The Diaspora

Having worked with hundreds of

clients from the African Diaspora and

the broader BAME (Black, Asian, and

Minority Ethnic) community, Ronald

is deeply committed to empowering

underrepresented groups. His fluency

in Swahili and his cultural awareness

make him especially effective in

serving clients from East Africa

and beyond. Ronald’s approach

is not just legal—it’s personal.

He recognises the emotional and

financial weight that immigration

issues carry and works diligently to

secure positive outcomes for his

clients. His reputation for empathy,

professionalism, and results has

made him a trusted advisor within

the diaspora.

Beyond Immigration

While immigration is his core focus,

Ronald’s legal expertise extends into

other areas, including:

●

●

●

●

●

●

Wills & Probate

Commercial Property

Common Law & Business Defence

Employment Law

Family Law

Medical Negligence & Serious Injury

Claims

This broad legal knowledge allows

him to offer holistic support to clients

whose needs may span multiple legal

domains.

Community And Character

Outside of his legal work, Ronald

is an active supporter of BAME

community initiatives in the UK.

He participates in local outreach

programs, advocates for inclusion,

and uses his platform to educate and

empower others. He is also a sports

enthusiast, an avid golfer, and a

proud Manchester United fan.

Reflection

Ronald Onyango’s story is a

testament to the power of crosscultural

expertise and communitydriven

legal service. His work

highlights the importance of

representation in the legal field

and the value of personalised,

compassionate advocacy. For

immigrants navigating the UK system,

Ronald is more than a solicitor—he’s

a guide, a strategist, and a voice of

reassurance. His journey reminds us

that legal support, when rooted in

empathy and cultural understanding,

can transform lives and open doors

to new beginnings.

How To Connect

Ronald Onyango is accessible

across multiple platforms for those

seeking legal guidance or wishing to

collaborate:

Mobile/WhatsApp:

+44 7950 462875

YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, Facebook:

Ronald Onyango Consultancy

LinkedIn: Ronald Onyango

X (Twitter): @RO1Consultancy

20



— 2015–2025”




SPECIAL FEATURE

THE MIGRANT

WORKERS’ PLIGHT

Backbone in the UK: Yet Still an Afterthought?

If we, migrant workers in the

UK, all decided to take a day

off—just one day—imagine

the chaos. The NHS would

be gasping for breat, care

homes would be in crisis,

public transport would be

in shambles, and let’s not

even start on the hospitality

and construction sectors.

From delivery drivers to

farm workers, we are the

silent engine keeping the

country running. Yet, despite

our critical role, we often

find ourselves undervalued,

underpaid, and overworked.

Let’s talk about dignity. We

hear about “British values”

like fairness and respect, but

for many of us, these seem

like distant dreams. Housing?

Overcrowded and overpriced.

Wages? Stretched to the

limit. Immigration rules? As

unpredictable as the British

weather. One minute, we are

“essential workers” (remember

the pandemic?), and the

next, we’re facing tougher

visa restrictions. It’s like being

invited to a tea party, only to

be told we can’t have a biscuit.

I have seen firsthand how we

struggle to be recognised for

our contributions. We don’t

just “help out”—we are the

backbone of the UK economy.

This country depends on

us, yet policies often make

it harder for us to live and

work with dignity. Many of

us juggle multiple jobs, face

unfair working conditions, and

constantly battle the fear of

unstable immigration policies.

It’s time for a reality check. We

deserve better, not as an act

of generosity, but because a

fair society cannot function

without us. Our welfare should

not be an afterthought but

a priority. So, the next time

someone sees a migrant

worker, I hope they remember:

we are not just filling jobs; we

are keeping the UK standing.

And without us? Well, let’s just

say the country might have

bigger problems than bad

weather.

All photos: Wacuka Kabute



23

Youth Feature

EMPOWERING AFRICAN YOUTH THROUGH FILM

THE STORY OF SAMUEL OCHIENG OLUOKO AND GPAY AFRICA

From Engineer to Filmmaker - Samuel’s Journey

Samuel Ochieng Oluoko is a native of Alego in Siaya

County, Kenya, and a man whose life journey is deeply

interwoven with passion, purpose, and community

transformation. His early education took place at

Senator Barack Obama Primary School, followed by

secondary schooling at Sawagongo High School.

Originally pursuing a diploma in Electrical/Electronics

Engineering at the Kenya Christian Industrial Training

Institute, Samuel later experienced a pivotal shift—

one that led him to the creative world of film and

media. He enrolled at the Kenya Institute of Mass

Communication, where he found his true calling.

Today, Samuel is a respected TV producer and director

with Royal Media Services, one of Kenya’s leading

media houses. But his work goes beyond television

production. He is also the founder of GPAY (Great

Potential African Youth) Africa, a community-based

organisation dedicated to nurturing youth talent in

Kenya’s informal settlements. Additionally, he leads a

consultancy and training company, Film Production

Technics, that equips aspiring creatives with technical

skills in film production.

All photos: Samuel Ochieng Oluoko

The Birth of GPAY Africa - A

Response to Violence and

Injustice

The origin of GPAY Africa can be

traced back to a dark chapter in

Kenya’s history—the 2007 postelection

violence. That period

saw over 1,000 lives lost and

numerous others displaced. In

urban informal settlements like

Dandora, where Samuel lived,

the situation was especially dire.

Outlawed sects such as Mungiki

thrived in the chaos, recruiting

disillusioned youth into violent

movements. In a bid to control

the violence, the government

issued shoot-to-kill orders,

tragically resulting in the deaths

of many innocent young people.

One of the lives lost was Joe, a

gifted spoken word artist and

singer who lived next door to

Samuel. Joe was not involved in

any criminal activity—he was

killed by police while buying

airtime from a local shop.

Samuel had often mentored Joe,

helping him explore and express

his artistic talents. The injustice

of Joe’s death struck a deep

chord. It became the catalyst

for GPAY Africa, launched in

Dandora with a vision to give

youth an alternative path—


one fueled by creativity, selfexpression,

and opportunity.

Using Film as a Tool for

Transformation

Samuel saw film not only

as an artistic outlet but also

as a powerful tool for youth

empowerment. Kenya’s film

industry, though still growing,

is rich with potential due to

the country’s scenic diversity,

multicultural society, and

historical depth. Samuel believes

that if local content creators

are supported by enabling

policies and robust distribution

channels, Kenya could emerge

as a hub of creative storytelling

in Africa. GPAY Africa bridges

the gap between untapped

youth potential and the creative

economy. The organisation offers

comprehensive training in film

production, covering disciplines

such as:

● Acting and Scriptwriting

● Directing and Producing

● Cinematography and Editing

● Graphic Design and Sound

Engineering

● Hosting and Digital Content

Creation

Through GPAY’s digital platform,

Bongah TV, young creators are

able to showcase their work,

gaining visibility and building

confidence. More importantly,

they’re learning skills that are

employable both locally and

internationally.

Global Collaboration -

Cinemadamare Africa

One of GPAY’s most

groundbreaking initiatives

is its partnership with the

Associazione Culturale

Cinemadamare, an international

film program based in

Venice, Italy. Since 2019, this

collaboration has brought

together over 200 young

filmmakers annually from more

than 20 countries—including

Kenya, Nigeria, Egypt, Italy, the

U.S., and India. The program,

dubbed Cinemadamare Africa,

offers hands-on training and

live production experiences

in both Kenya and Italy. It

provides young creatives with

exposure to cross-cultural

collaboration, global filmmaking

standards, and the shared

language of storytelling.

These experiences foster not

just technical growth but also

intercultural understanding

and cohesion—a key aspect

of sustainable development.

To date, the Cinemadamare

program has brought together

participants from 37 countries in

Kenya and 23 globally, spanning

continents such as Africa,

Europe, Asia, and North America.

Despite lacking formal funding,

the GPAY team has tirelessly

mobilised resources, networks,

and goodwill to make these

opportunities available to youth

who might otherwise never

dream of such exposure.

Local Impact and Global Vision

The grassroots impact of GPAY

Africa has been especially

powerful in Nairobi’s informal

settlements, where poverty,

crime, and substance abuse are

daily challenges. Programs like

“Talents Galore” allow young

people to perform and produce

content that tells their own

stories, giving them a platform

and a sense of purpose. The

approach isn’t just about art—

it’s about reclaiming identity

and redefining futures. Samuel’s

work has not gone unnoticed.

He currently serves on the jury

panel for the International

Tourism Film Festival Africa in

South Africa, using his platform

to further advocate for African

content and voices in global

spaces. Yet, Samuel’s ultimate

goal is still in progress: to create

the largest network of young

African filmmakers, united by a

shared vision of change, culture,

and creativity.

Reflection

Samuel Ochieng Oluoko’s story

is a testament to how personal

tragedy can birth collective

transformation. What began as

a response to a senseless killing

has grown into a continentspanning

movement. Through

film, Samuel is changing lives,

not only by providing technical

skills but by affirming that every

young person, regardless of

where they come from, has a

story worth telling. In a world

where African youth are often

marginalised or viewed through

the lens of vulnerability, Samuel

flips the script—literally and

figuratively. He positions youth

as architects of their own

futures, equipped with cameras,

creativity, and courage. His

journey is a vivid reminder that

purpose can be found in pain

and that with the right lens, even

the most disadvantaged can

become visionary storytellers.


25

SPORTS

A HISTORIC KENYAN

VICTORY

Sebastian Sawe Claims

the 2025 London

Marathon

(AP Photo/Alberto Pezzali)

Sebastian Sawe is the Kenyan

runner who became the 2025

London Marathon Champion.

In a historic moment for

Kenyan athletics, Sebastian

Sawe claimed the title at

the 2025 London Marathon.

This victory not only marked

a significant personal

achievement for Sawe but also

highlighted Kenya’s continued

dominance in long-distance

running.

The Race Unfolds

On April 27, 2025, Sebastian

Sawe delivered a masterclass

in tactical racing and raw

strength. The men’s elite race

began with a tightly bunched

group, including legendary

runners like Eliud Kipchoge,

world half-marathon recordholder

Jacob Kiplimo, Olympic

champion Tamirat Tola,

and defending champion

Alexander Mutiso Munyao.

The group maintained a quick

pace, passing the halfway

mark in 1:01:30 2.

A Decisive Move

The race took a dramatic

turn around the 30-kilometre

mark when Sawe made a

bold decision at a water

station. Skipping his drink, he

unleashed a powerful surge,

covering a mile in just 4:18.

This strategic move caught

his competitors off guard,

26


Getty Images

Getty Images

On April 27, 2025,

Sebastian Sawe delivered

a masterclass in tactical

racing and raw strength.

allowing Sawe to break away from

the pack. By the 35-kilometre

mark, he had established a

commanding lead, maintaining a

searing pace 2.

Crossing the Finish Line

Sebastian Sawe crossed the finish

line with a time of 2:02:27, one of

the fastest times ever recorded at

the London Marathon. His victory

was a testament to his exceptional

endurance and strategic racing.

Sawe’s performance not only

secured his place among marathon

greats but also inspired countless

fans and aspiring runners.

The Competition

Jacob Kiplimo, making his

marathon debut, finished in second

place with an impressive time

of 2:03:37. Defending champion

Alexander Mutiso Munyao secured

third place, crossing the finish line

in 2:04:20 2. Despite the presence

of such formidable competitors,

Sawe’s decisive move and

relentless pace proved unbeatable.

Key Takeaways

1. Strategic Decision-Making:

Sawe’s victory underscores

the importance of strategic

decision-making in achieving

success.

2. Endurance and Strength:

Exceptional endurance and

physical strength are crucial

for excelling in long-distance

running.

3. Inspiration and Legacy: Sawe’s

performance serves as an

inspiration to aspiring athletes,

demonstrating that with

determination and strategy,

great achievements are

possible.

Reflection

Sebastian Sawe’s historic victory

at the 2025 London Marathon

highlights the power of strategic

decision-making and exceptional

endurance. His performance

serves as an inspiration to

athletes worldwide, proving

that with determination and

careful planning, remarkable

achievements are within reach.


SPORTS

A MINORITY WITHIN

A MINORITY

Celebrating a British-

Kenyan Football Legend,

Taiwo Leo Atieno

A Life Between Worlds

Born in Brixton to a Kenyan

father and a British-Sicilian

mother, Taiwo Leo Atieno’s

life has been a journey of

duality - of cultures, identities,

and challenges. Raised

primarily by his mother and

spending school holidays with

his grandparents, Atieno’s

upbringing was rooted in love,

resilience, and a deep sense

of purpose. His story is not

just about football; it’s about

identity, representation, and

the power of legacy.

Growing Up Mixed-Race in

1980s Britain

In the 1980s, the UK was

home to around 10,000

Kenyans, 150,000 Nigerians,

and over 250,000 Jamaicans.

Among mixed-race children,

those of Kenyan heritage

numbered only about 420,

less than 1% of the total

mixed-race population. This

placed Atieno in a unique

position: a minority within

a minority. While Jamaican

and Nigerian communities

had more visibility and

cultural influence, the

Kenyan diaspora remained

relatively underrepresented.

This disparity extended into

cultural expression, education

and even sports.

Early Struggles and a Passion

for Football

Academically, Atieno

faced challenges early on.

Schoolwork often took a

backseat to his true passion—

football. His dedication to the

sport was unwavering, and

it became the driving force

of his youth. In 2001, his

hard work paid off when he

signed his first professional

contract with Walsall Football

Club, just one tier below

the Premier League. This

milestone was bittersweet.

Atieno’s mother, Bridget Mary

Glaisher—a Christian Catholic

arts and drama teacher who

ran her own company, African

Cultural Contractors—had

been his greatest supporter.

She passed away from

cancer when he was just 16,

but not before witnessing

her son achieve his dream

of becoming a professional

footballer.

28


Breaking Barriers in Professional

Football

Atieno holds the distinction of

being the first Kenyan to play

professional football in England,

appearing in the English Football

League, the FA Cup, and other

major tournaments. By the age

of 24, his career had taken him

across the globe—from the US

Soccer League and the Concacaf

Champions League to the African

Cup of Nations and the 2010

World Cup Qualifiers, representing

Kenya, then ranked 65th in the

world by FIFA. His journey was

not just about personal success—

it was about representation.

In a sport where African and

mixed-race identities were often

marginalised, Atieno’s presence

on the field was a statement of

pride and possibility.

Family Legacy and Inspiration

Atieno’s greatest inspirations were

his parents and grandparents. His

father, a professor of journalism,

and his grandparents, both

veterans of the British Royal

Armed Forces during World

War II, instilled in him a deep

sense of discipline and purpose.

His grandfather later became

a general practitioner, and his

grandmother worked as a legal

secretary. She remained a guiding

force in his life until her passing

in 2016 at the age of 96. Their

stories of service, sacrifice, and

resilience became the foundation

upon which Atieno built his own

legacy.

Faith, Identity, and Resilience

Faith played a central role in

Atieno’s life and career. Raised in a

household that blended Christian

and traditional Luo beliefs, he

found strength in spirituality

during times of adversity. Facing

racism and systemic bias in

football, his belief in God helped

him persevere. He often likens

his journey to that of David

facing Goliath—a testament to

the power of faith, courage, and

determination.

Life After Football - A New

Mission

Retiring from professional football

in 2014 was a difficult decision.

The sport had defined his life, but

Atieno felt a calling to give back.

Rather than continue playing

for financial gain, he chose to

support the next generation.

His post-football journey has

been marked by growth and

learning, particularly in finance,

law, and accounting. He credits

much of this development to a

long-standing partnership with

his late accountant from the

Jewish community and a 12-year

collaboration in the music sector

enforcement and compliance.

Building the Future of African

Football

Today, Atieno is focused on

transforming football in Africa.

His vision includes building worldclass

facilities, rebranding national

leagues, and restructuring the

Kenya Football Federation. He

is passionate about planning,

budgeting, and developing

projects that enhance outdoor

spaces and create meaningful

opportunities for youth. Just

as football shaped his life, he

now seeks to use it as a tool for

empowerment and change across

the continent.

Reflection

Taiwo Leo Atieno’s story is one

of perseverance, identity, and

purpose. From a young boy

in Brixton to an international

footballer and visionary leader,

his journey reflects the power of

faith, family, and self-belief. His life

reminds us that representation

matters—and that even those who

begin as outsiders can become

pioneers. Being a minority within

a minority can be isolating, but

it also offers a unique strength.

Atieno’s life teaches us that

embracing our full identity—

cultural, spiritual, and personal—

can be a source of empowerment.

His story encourages us to

celebrate complexity, champion

inclusion and invest in the next

generation.

Credit: Taiwo Leo Atieno


Diaspora Youth Section

Rooted in Purpose

In the heart of Coventry, UK, a

quiet revolution is taking place, one

rooted in mentorship, community,

and the unwavering belief in

the potential of young men. At

the centre of this movement is

Gad Turuthi, a visionary leader

whose life’s work is dedicated

to nurturing the next generation

through guidance, support, and

empowerment.

From Nairobi to Coventry - A

Journey of Purpose

Gad Turuthi’s passion for youth

empowerment began in Nairobi,

Kenya. Shortly after completing

high school, he founded his first

youth-focused organisation, driven

by a desire to uplift and inspire

his peers. This early initiative

laid the foundation for a lifelong

commitment to community

development. Upon relocating

to the United Kingdom, Gad was

struck by the challenges facing

young men in Coventry, particularly

issues of violence, anger, and

disconnection. These observations

became the catalyst for the

creation of Mizizi Boys Mentorship,

a community-based organisation

designed to offer young men a

sense of belonging and purpose.

Mizizi Boys: Cultivating Roots of

Stability

The name “Mizizi,” which means

“roots” in Swahili, encapsulates

the organisation’s mission: to

help young men establish strong

foundations in their identity,

values, and community. Through

Mizizi Boys Mentorship, Gad

provides a safe and supportive

environment where young men

can grow, connect, and thrive.

The organisation’s activities

are as dynamic as they are

impactful. From football matches

and tournaments to structured

mentorship programs, Mizizi

offers a holistic approach to youth

development. These initiatives

not only foster camaraderie

and teamwork but also serve

as platforms for meaningful

conversations and personal growth.

Leadership Beyond Mentorship

In addition to his role at Mizizi,

Gad Turuthi serves as a Director

at SafeNest Care Ltd, a Coventrybased

company. His leadership in

both organisations reflects a deep

commitment to social impact and

community well-being. Gad’s work

has not gone unnoticed. He is

widely recognised as a community


Gad Turuthi’s Mission to Empower Black Boys and Young Men in the UK

leader in the UK, admired for

his dedication, integrity, and

ability to inspire change. His

efforts have created ripples of

transformation, touching the

lives of countless young men

and their families.

Lessons from Gad Turuthi’s

Journey

Gad’s story offers several

powerful lessons:

1. Start Where You Are: Gad

began his journey with a

simple desire to help others.

His early efforts in Nairobi

demonstrate that meaningful

change often starts with small,

local actions.

2. Respond to Community

Needs: Mizizi was born out

of Gad’s keen observation of

the struggles faced by young

men in Coventry. His ability to

listen and respond to these

needs has been key to the

organisation’s success.

3. Empower Through

Connection: By creating

spaces where young men feel

seen, heard, and valued, Gad

fosters a sense of belonging

that is essential for personal

development.

4. Lead with Purpose:

Whether through mentorship

or business, Gad’s leadership

is grounded in a clear and

unwavering purpose—to uplift

and empower.

Reflection

Gad Turuthi’s work invites us all

to consider: What roots are we

helping others grow? In a world

where many young people feel

lost or disconnected, the power

of mentorship, community,

and compassion cannot be

overstated. Whether through

formal programs or everyday

interactions, each of us has

the potential to be a source

of stability and inspiration for

someone else.

Credit: Gad Turuthi

Credit: Gad Turuthi


31

DIASPORA YOUTH

A MAGNIFICENT RISE FROM

VILLAGE HARDSHIP TO GLOBAL STAGE

WAINAINA GITHIMIRI, BENGA VIRTUOSO AND MASTER OF CEREMONIES

Humble Beginnings in Rural

Kenya

Born in the 1970s as the

second-last child in a family

of ten, John Wainaina, widely

known as Wainaina Githimiri,

grew up in the modest but

resilient embrace of rural

Kenya. After losing his father at

a tender age, he was raised by

his widowed mother, a woman

who bore the weight of raising

her large family alone. Life was

far from easy. Resources were

scarce, and Wainaina often

relied on the generosity of an

older brother and the local

church to pursue his education.

His schooling years were

punctuated by struggle. Unpaid

fees threatened to derail his

learning, and the trauma of

tribal clashes left emotional

scars. He often wondered why

neighbours who once coexisted

in harmony could turn against

one another so violently. Yet

even in those painful times,

music became his source of

solace and identity.

The Power of Song as Survival

From an early age, Wainaina

found strength and healing

in music. He entertained

classmates by mimicking

popular

musicians,

unknowingly laying the

groundwork for a future career.

Song became his therapy, his

tool for resisting despair and

nurturing hope. Despite these

early interests, economic

realities forced Wainaina to

prioritise survival over dreams.

He took on manual labour jobs

to support his mother and save

up for a diploma in ironwork

technology. Yet music never


stopped calling. It lingered in his

spirit, waiting for the right moment

to be reborn.

The First Big Step - Recording with

Ogopa DJs

In 2019, that moment arrived. After

years of supporting his young family

through hard work and sacrifice,

Wainaina recorded his first official

track at Kenya’s famed Ogopa DJs

studio. At the time, the decision

seemed impractical to many around

him. Money was tight, and diverting

resources to music was seen as

risky. Still, he remained steadfast,

convinced that passion was worth the

price. That initial track paved the way

for a budding music career. Wainaina

began producing love ballads rooted

in the rich rhythms of benga music —

a genre deeply embedded in Kenya’s

cultural fabric. Songs like Mabeshte,

Muroro, Mwari wa Maitu, and

Wahe Kiwendo resonated with both

traditionalists and contemporary

listeners. Then came COVID-19. The

pandemic shuttered entertainment

venues and halted live performances

just as Wainaina’s musical journey

was beginning to take off. But

instead of surrendering, he adapted.

He turned inward, refining his craft

and composing lyrics that reflected

the resilience of the human spirit.

A Bold Leap - Crossing Continents to

Northern Ireland

In 2023, life took another unexpected

turn. Wainaina relocated to Northern

Ireland in search of better economic

opportunities. He found work as a

steelworker — a far cry from the

music studios of Nairobi. Adapting to

a foreign climate and culture proved

challenging. Recording authentic

Benga music in such a different

setting was equally daunting. But

his creative spirit refused to be

silenced. Wainaina soon began

recording at Kidrays Studios,

determined to bring the sounds

of home to a new audience. His

music retained its cultural richness,

echoing with familiar themes of

love, perseverance, and identity.

Alongside recording, he established

himself as a charismatic master of

ceremonies, captivating audiences

with his humour, energy, and cultural

pride.

A New Platform - Kenya and Friends

in the Park

Now, a new milestone beckons.

Wainaina is slated to perform at

the much-anticipated “Kenya and

Friends in the Park” festival —

an annual diaspora celebration

organised by Madam Lydia Tett Olet.

The event, a cultural showcase that

brings together Kenyan talent from

across the globe, offers Wainaina a

grander stage to share his story and

music. This upcoming performance

marks a full-circle moment. From

village songs sung in the shadows

of hardship to a global stage where

he now performs for a multicultural

audience, Wainaina’s journey is

a powerful affirmation of what

perseverance can achieve.

More Than Music - A Story of

Purpose

Beyond the melodies and lyrics,

Wainaina’s journey carries a deeper

message. His life is a rallying cry for

anyone daring to pursue dreams

in the face of adversity. He did not

have wealth or privilege. What he

had was an unwavering belief in his

purpose, a love for his culture, and

a refusal to let hardship define his

destiny. His Benga sound — infused

with authenticity and soul — is more

than entertainment; it’s cultural

preservation. It is a bridge between

generations, connecting the past

with the present, Kenya with the

world.

The MC Persona - Voice of

Celebration and Unity

In addition to his music, Wainaina’s

skills as a master of ceremonies have

become equally renowned. Whether

hosting weddings, community

events, or cultural festivals, he brings

a unique flair that blends humour,

tradition, and professionalism. His

presence uplifts spirits and brings

communities together, making him

one of the most sought-after Kenyan

entertainers in the diaspora.

Reflection

Wainaina Githimiri’s life is not just

a personal victory — it’s a living

testament to what faith, resilience,

and vision can accomplish. From

singing in dusty schoolyards to

captivating diaspora audiences

abroad, he proves that greatness

often emerges from the most humble

beginnings. His story inspires anyone

who has ever felt overlooked,

under-resourced, or discouraged to

keep pushing, keep believing, and

most of all, keep singing. For event

bookings, collaborations, or simply

to experience the soul of authentic

benga music fused with the warmth

of Kenyan storytelling, Wainaina

Githimiri remains just a call away. His

story reminds us all that sometimes,

the most beautiful rhythms are born

not in comfort, but in courage.

All Pictures: Wainaina Githimiri


ANNIVERSARY

2015 - 2025

A Decade of Unity

Celebrating 10 Years of Kenya and Friends in the Park

with Lydia Tett Olet

An Interview with the Founder:

As Kenya and Friends in the Park

marks its 10th anniversary this

July at Acton Park, London, the

Karibu KUK Magazine team sits

down with the visionary behind

this vibrant cultural celebration

festival, Lydia Tett Olet. What

began as a simple dream to bring

Kenyans and friends together

in the diaspora has blossomed

into one of the most anticipated

African events in the UK, and

arguably across Europe. In this

special interview, we reflect on

the journey, the people who made

it possible, and the legacy being

built.

Here are 10 insightful questions

for Lydia:

1. Looking back to 2015, what

inspired you to start Kenya

and Friends in the Park?

The inspiration stemmed from

a deep desire to create a space

where community, culture, and

connection could flourish. It was

about investing in something

bigger than ourselves. People

are now able to invest back at

home in land and properties.

Aside from that, people are able

to send money back home for

investment purposes. Secondly,

the other inspiration was curbing

loneliness- It can get lonely here

in the UK, and the event just came

in time for people to connect and

enjoy the Kenyan culture. Thirdly,

by building strong social and

34


business networks, and showcasing

the beauty and richness of Kenyan

and African culture. It was about

bringing unity and a sense of

belonging amongst Kenyans in the

UK.

2. How has the event evolved

over the past decade? What’s

changed, and what has

remained at its core?

While our vision has always

remained rooted in community and

culture, the event has grown in both

scale and professionalism. What

started as a one-day gathering is

now a dynamic two-day festival.

We’ve also introduced ticketing not

as a barrier, but as a step towards

sustainability. This evolution allows

us to continue offering quality

experiences year after year, while

keeping the spirit of unity at the

heart of it all.

3. Who were the key people who

stood by you in the early days,

and how did their support

shape the foundation of this

event?

As with any meaningful journey,

people come for a season, a reason

and a lifetime, but each person

leaves a mark. I’m incredibly

thankful to those early believers, and

especially grateful to Lydia Smith

for her consistency and unwavering

support. Her presence during the

foundational years helped shape

the values of commitment and

community that guide us today. I

also have a team of 16 people who

volunteer and really work well, and

without even of them, the team is

not complete. I am entirely grateful

for my team

4. Can you share a moment from

the past 10 years that truly

moved you or affirmed your

Vision?

Each year has affirmed something

different, eg when we started in

2015: That was God’s reassurance

that this event was meant to be.

In the previous years, it rained so

heavily, but people never failed to

come. People always showed up for

our event. There have been many

touching moments and testimonies

that brought me to tears, lives

changed, dreams sparked, and

futures shaped. From couples who

met at the event, to entrepreneurs

who launched successful businesses,

and individuals who found renewed

purpose, these stories affirm

that we’re doing something truly

meaningful.

5. What role has your family

played in this journey, both behind

the scenes and in the Spotlight?

When I say family, I mean my

immediate family, my beautiful,

beautiful three angels who have

been there from the beginning.

That’s Dennese, Larissa, and Sinead.

They’ve been there from day one,

and they’ve really helped me a lot.

Back in 2015, we used to go to all

the events, and they would give out

Kenya and friends in the park flyers.

They never had a holiday because

every break, I took them around

to promote the event. I wouldn’t

say I bullied them, but I made sure

they were involved. They never had

summer holidays. These girls are

angels. They’ve done this, made

this, built this. Everything you see is

because of their sacrifice. And now,

from last year, I’m blessed to also

have my husband, who joined forces

with us and is now a big help, big

time. So yes, my family has played

a very foundational and active role

both behind the scenes and in the

spotlight.

6. Sponsors and partners

have been instrumental—how

have those relationships grown,

and what do they mean to the

event today?

When we started in 2015, we didn’t

have any sponsors or partners

because people were sceptical they

had never seen an event like this.

But from 2016 onwards, they started

coming in slowly. And now, we have

repeat sponsors who have been

with us for four, even five years.

They keep coming back, which tells

us something is working in terms

of return on investment. Because if

there was no return, why would they

come back? They have played a very

big role, and I’m really grateful to all

our sponsors and partners who are

always with us. Of course, we also

have some who only come for one

year just to collect data, and when

they feel like they’ve got what they

need, they don’t return. And that’s

fair enough; at least they came and

supported us. So we’re very grateful

to all our sponsors, the one-time

ones and the loyal ones. For those

who have stayed with us, we have a

surprise for you this year!

7. Your team has helped

bring this vision to life year after

year. What qualities do you look for

in the people you work with?

Teamwork. That’s the biggest thing.

Some people don’t know how to

take direction; they can’t be told

anything. I’m looking for people who

understand what it means to work

as a team. If someone says, “Don’t

put this here, put it there,” you do

that without starting an argument

like, “No, it looks better here.”

I’ve worked with volunteers, and

sometimes I’ve had to let some go

the next day. But there are others,

like Eric, who started as a volunteer

and stayed because he’s willing to

learn, relearn and unlearn. At Kenya

and Friends in the Park, we need

people who can truly work as a

TO PAGE: 43

10th Anniversary Edition | JULY 2025 35

Back by

demand in the UK:

Africa’s greatest tenor

PRESENTS

The golden voice of Congolese rumba

returns for two powerhouse UK concerts.

Expect the finest in live Rumba and Soukous

guitar rhythms. From an intimate live dining

concert to a live celebration, this is a rare tribute

to the golden era, brought to the future — close

up with Nyboma, the greatest African tenor.

SUNDAY 24 AUGUST 2025

6:30 PM – 11:00 PM

ASOUL MAMA – Intimate dining concert

5THURSDAY 28 AUGUST 2025

M7:00 PM – 10:30 PM

–THE LOWER THIRD –

Evening Late-night live stage concert show

Limited tickets available now:

Eventbrite • Universe.com

For more information, contact: 07583 188 808

Also appearing at Antilliaanse Feesten, Belgium

9 August 2025 – World’s largest Caribbean festival




37 37

10TH 10th ANNIVERSARY Anniversary Edition EDITION | JULY | JULY 2025 2025 37

KENYA

COUNTRYFILE

HOW MUCH DO YOU

KNOW ABOUT KENYA?

The following summarizes key

aspects about our country and we

hope you and your children can

benefit from it.

Independence from Britain on 12 th

December 1963.

Geography & Demographics.

Kenya is the 49 th largest country in the

world covering an area of 581,309 km 2 .

With a population of 45 million the

overwhelming majority of whom are

below the age of 50.

Administration.

The country was previously divided into

8 provinces- Central, Rift-valley, Coast,

Nyanza, Western, Eastern, Nairobi and

North Eastern.

After the new constitution in 2010, the

country is now divided into 47 countieseach

headed by a governor akin to the

ones we have in the US- or Nigeria.

Nairobi remains the political, economic

and social capital of the country with

very limited effort to move any national

foundations elsewhere.

Politics and governance.

A presidential system with a president

elected after every 5 years.

Two Legislative houses-the Lower House

- Parliament with 349 members and

the upper house- The Senate with 67

members.

Membership is by election through

some members are nominated directly

by their political parties.

All counties have elected members

who form regional parliaments and

governments.

Kenya has had 4 presidents since

independence:

ü

ü

ü

ü

Jomo Kenyatta who led the

country to independence until

his death in 1978.

Daniel arap Moi from 1978 to

2002.

Emilio Mwai Kibaki- from

2002-2013-todate.

Uhuru Kenyatta (son to the first

president)-2013-todate.

*Hon. Raila Amolo Odinga served as the

second prime minister of the country

from 2008-2013.

Regional hub.

Nairobi remains a regional and the

African headquarters of many global

corporations such as GE, Google, GSK,

and Microsoft; as well as scientific

and research organization such as

the International center for inspect

physiology and ecology-ICIPE.

It is the only third world country with

a UN headquarters-the United Nations

environmental program located in

Nairobi along Limuru Road

Major exports

· Tea, coffee, horticulture (flowers

and fruits), pyrethrum, tourism and

manufactured goods to the region.

· Sports especially athletes, rugby

and recently footballer(s).

key economic sectors

1. Agriculture, horticulture and food

processing.

2. Banking and insurance.

3. Technology and mobile

communication. Among the country

with the highest mobile phone

connectivity with 35 million active

mobile phone handsets.

4. Dairy farming.

5. Kenya will soon be a major exporter

of valuable minerals, oil and natural

gas.

Major tourist attractions/Places to

visit:

· The spectacular and beautiful Great

Rift Valley.

· The great Mount Kenya (the second

highest mountain in Africa).

· Maasai Mara Game Reserve and

specifically the wildest migration

across the crocodile infested Mara

River.


· The Nairobi National Park in the

outskirts of Nairobi.

· Beautiful and spectacular beaches

at the Kenyan coast.

· The Fort Jesus along Nkrumah

Road in Mombasa -Built by the

Portuguese explorers and opened

in 1593.

· Bullfighting in Western Kenya.

National Anthem.

The Kenya national anthem expresses

the convictions and aspirations of the

Kenyan people. It was commissioned

in 1963 – Originally in Swahili and was

based on a traditional tune sung by

mothers of the Pokomo Community to

their children.

Key personalities:

· Field Marshall Dedan Kimathi

Waciuri (deceased)- A brilliant

military organiser who led the

Mau Mau uprising against the

British. Captured and executed by

the British on 18 th February 1957;

and sadly still buried at the Kamiti

Maximum security prison to this

day.

· Jomo Kenyatta (deceased) -

Founding prime minister and

president of the Republic of

Kenya.

· Oginga Odinga (deceased)

– Freedom fighter and

independence icon.

· Masinde Muliro (deceased)

– Freedom fighter and

independence icon.

· Daniel arap Moi- Second president

of the Republic of Kenya.

· Mwai Kibaki- Third president of

the republic of Kenya.

· Raila Amolo Odinga- second prime

minister of the republic of Kenya.

· Kipchoge Keino- Most famous

athlete and sports administrator.

· Martin Shikuku (deceased)–

Independence icon and renowned

MP.

· Professor Wangari Maathai

(deceased)- First female

professor of veterinary medicine,

environmental campaigner, and

winner of the Nobel Peace Prize.

· Professor Ngugi wa Thiongo –

Renown writer and professor of

English and literature.

· Professor Francis Imbuga

(deceased) – Professor of

literature and renowned writer.

· Thomas Joseph Mboya

(deceased)- Trade unionist, MP,

Minister and brilliant architect of

the Kenya’s early economic plan

and strategies.

Kenya’s Timeline.

1. 1952- Mau Mau uprising- the

bloody uprising against colonial

rule.

2. 1963- Country defeats the British

and gains independence

3. 1978 - First president of the

country dies in his sleep. Daniel

Arap Moi takes over.

4. 1982- Attempted coup d’état to

overthrow the government of the

day.

5. 1991- The law changed to allow

the registration of more political

parties.

6. 1998 – A bloody terrorist attack

in the middle of the capital leaves

230 dead.

7. 2002- President Moi retires

and Mwai Kibaki takes over as

president.

8. 2007- Disputed elections results

in very bloody skirmishes and

the unfortunate death of 1,600

Kenyans many killed with

unimaginable brutality.

9. 2013 – President Kibaki retires

and Uhuru Muigai Kenyatta takes

over as president.


40

MEETING AND MARRYING MY FRIEND

THE STORY OF ANGELA (KARANJA) COOK

knee - instead, he put the ring and the note

in a bowl and asked me to open it. He took

the ring and put it on my finger … it was a

moment I’ll treasure forever. Although I do

sometimes feel he stole my thunder because

on that morning, the reason he came to

my house was to accompany me to my

graduation celebration and to be awarded a

first-class degree in psychology.

FROM- PAGE 15

A few years would pass, and much was

happening. Postgraduate studies, ill parents,

death of parents, familial mental health

problems, etc. It seemed like every time we

revisited the idea of the wedding, something

would crop up. One day, we got to a point

and said, no matter what happens next year,

we are doing the wedding. And right there,

a month was chosen, and then we began to

make arrangements. The planning was so

much fun and easy because my very close

family and friends, who would also be my

bridesmaids, made it smooth and fun. We

were so intentional about how we wanted

to celebrate our love and friendship and

commitment, trust, and our journey that

brought us together.

On the 28th of June 2024, surrounded by

intentionally handpicked people who mean

the most to us, we pledged our vows to each

other with such big smiles, yet with tears of

our genuine commitment to each other. In

addition to being my friend and partner, I

was so thrilled that Matt would become my

husband. It wasn’t your regular wedding, it

was a party, a fun event, a testament to the

bond we had built, brick by brick, over time.

I want to end this story here, but I wouldn’t

do it justice to not mention that my husband

also said when he gets married, he’d love

to honeymoon in the Cook Islands (get it??

our surname is Cook). He’d booked the

honeymoon to the Cook Islands the day we

set the wedding date! I’d said yes to this even

though my dream honeymoon would be

Seychelles..... but who’s to say we can’t go for

a second honeymoon??!!

Anyhoo!

Our love story continues, and it is a reminder

of the beauty in meeting someone who not

only walks beside me and brings the best out

of me and supports me fully,

whilst I support him fully to

be the best version of himself.

Together, we’ve built a life

filled with laughter, love, and

unshakeable partnership —

and proving that sometimes,

the best relationships

are those that begin with

friendship. And here’s the

thing … you, too, can have

your dream partner! It starts

by writing your vision and

making it so clear that it will

be brought to fulfilment.

Angela Cook is a worldrenowned

psychologist and

coach, a parenting teenagers

expert and founder of www.

RaisingRemarkableTeenagers.

com


KISWAHILI

ENGLISH

THE KENYA NATIONAL ANTHEM

Ee Mungu nguvu yetu

Ilete baraka kwetu

Haki iwe ngao na mlinzi

Natukae na undugu

Amani na uhuru

Raha tupate na ustawi

Amkeni ndugu zetu

Tufanye sote bidii

Nasi tujitoe kwa nguvu

Nchi yetu ya Kenya

Tunayoipenda

Tuwe tayari kuilinda

Natujenge taifa letu

Ee, ndio wajibu wetu

Kenya istahili heshima

Tuungane mikono

Pamoja kazini

Kila siku tuwe na shukrani

O God of all creation

Bless this our land and nation

Justice be our shield and defender

May we dwell in unity

Peace and liberty

Plenty be found within our borders

Let one and all arise

With hearts both strong and true

Service be our earnest endeavour

And our homeland of Kenya

Heritage of splendour

Firm may we stand to defend.

Let all with one accord

In common bond united

Build this our nation together

And the glory of Kenya

The fruit of our labour

Fill every heart with thanks giving.

42


fROM PAGE: 35

Celebrating 10 Years of Kenya and Friends in the Park

with Lydia Tett Olet

team. Some individuals are great

but work best alone, and that’s

okay, just not for this setup.

We’ve built strong working

relationships, and it’s because we

all understand the power of unity

8. How do you ensure

the event remains inclusive and

representative of both Kenyans

and the wider African diaspora?

Inclusivity is in our DNA. That’s

why it’s called “Kenya and Friends

in the Park.” You don’t have to be

Kenyan, just a friend of Kenya.

And if you’re not a friend… well,

who wants to be on the other

side of that? We market to the

African community broadly, with

a special focus on East Africa. But

we welcome everyone, whether

you’re Caucasian, Asian, or from

any other background. While our

participants are mainly African,

especially from the diaspora, our

visitors come from all walks of

life. This is a space for everyone

to celebrate Africa.

9. What impact do you

think Kenya and Friends in the

Park has had on the Kenyan

community in the UK and

beyond?

The impact has been

extraordinary. People have made

lifelong connections, launched

businesses, invested back home,

and even found love. We’ve

helped fight scams by introducing

verified investors, and many

attendees have become

landowners and opened bank

accounts. We have people who

have given their lives to Christ

because we normally have the

church come for the event. The

park is not, of course, it’s not a

Christian forum, but we all know

that Kenya is set up on a Christian

foundation. So we normally have

only one pastor that to comes to

pray for us and make sure that

everything goes okay and we

appreciate that, I’m a Christian,

so I love what the Reverend

Kifadhi does and we have people

who have given their life to Christ

and that to me is a big, big, big

thing and we also have people.

We’ve seen artists rise, like Sarah

Ikumu, who first performed with

us at just 15 and went on to shine

on Britain’s Got Talent. I met her

the other day. She’s so big now,

she’s so beautiful, and her voice

is like an angelic voice, and I

was like, do you just remember

this? She was like, yeah, thank

you so much, Auntie, for giving

me that space. Thank you so

much. And I was like, you need

to come back and say thank you

to that platform. I’m not saying

it’s the platform that made her.

I’m just saying that we gave her

an opportunity to sing in Kenya

and friends in the park. So yeah,

the impact is way beyond. And

also culture-wise, we have a

lot of children who are now in

touch with their culture, and

it’s through Kenya and friends

in the park. People have found

faith, families, and their cultural

roots—all through this platform.

That’s a real, lasting impact.

10. As you celebrate this

milestone, what’s your vision for

the next 10 years of Kenya and

TO PAGE:45


43


— 2015–2025”

“Together for Ten:

Honouring Our Heritage”




fROM PAGE: 43

A Decade

of Unity

Celebrating 10 Years of

Kenya and Friends in the

Park with Lydia Tett Olet

Friends in the Park?

Oh, I love that question! As we move forward,

the goal is expansion. We are trying to expand

now because we started as Kenya and friends

in the park. Yes, we’re bringing friends, but now

we’re bringing friends literally. We’re working

with different communities to come to join us.

So we’re going to have Kenya and friends, and

then under the umbrella of Kenya and friends,

we’re going to have different countries, like

now we’re going to have Ugandan village,

Tanzanian village, Rwandan village. That’s

our vision for the coming 10 years. So then,

in 10 years we will be celebrating 20 years

of Kenya and friends in the Park being in

existence. We’re going to have different

countries under the umbrella of Kenya and

friends in the park. So we’ll have Kenya and

Friends in collaboration with Congo, Zambia,

all these other different countries, and that’s

our vision. And also probably to start in

different countries, because now we can see

that we have a lot of copy and paste. You see

somebody doing Kenya in the park event, and

those people I don’t know. We are not in any

collaboration with them or relationship with

them. So we will try to take Kenya and Friends

In The Park to different countries, because

we’ve had so many people inquire about that.

That is what our vision is from now to 20 years,

and that’s where the slogan comes in:

It can only be God.

The End

45

10TH 10TH ANNIVERSARY EDITION | JULY | JULY 2025

2025 45

COMMUNITY

THE

INSPIRING STORY

OF DOREEN MURUGI

The Tireless Kenyan Community Activist in N. Ireland

Doreen Murugi is a dedicated

community activist who has

significantly contributed to

fostering unity and celebrating

diversity in Northern Ireland.

As the founder of the African

Caribbean Community

Network (ACCN), Doreen

has been instrumental in

organising events that highlight

the rich cultural heritage

of African and Caribbean

communities in Northern

Ireland.

Celebrating Diversity

One of Doreen’s notable

achievements is organising

the Africa Day celebrations

in Derry, Londonderry.

These events, supported by

local organisations, bring

together people from various

backgrounds to celebrate

African culture through

music, dance, food, and art.

In 2024, Doreen organised

the first African Day in Derry /

Londonderry, which brought

over 1000 people together. The

same event happened recently

on the 24th of May 2025. The

Africa Day event is a vibrant

display of cultural pride and

community spirit, attracting

hundreds of attendees each

year. The celebration features

music, dance, arts and crafts,

face-painting, and authentic

African cuisine, creating

an inclusive and festive

atmosphere. The event has

been praised for highlighting

the rich cultural heritage

of African and Caribbean

communities and fostering

a spirit of unity within the

broader community.

Promoting Unity

Doreen’s efforts extend beyond

cultural celebrations. She

is committed to educating

the community about the

importance of diversity and

inclusion. Through ACCN,

she works to foster a spirit

of unity within the broader

community, emphasising the

value of understanding and

respecting different cultures.

Her initiatives aim to bridge

gaps and build stronger, more

cohesive communities. The

community’s response to

Doreen’s efforts has been

overwhelmingly positive. Local

leaders, including the Mayor

of Derry City & Strabane,

have expressed their support

and appreciation for the

Africa Day event. The Mayor

even participated in the

festivities, trying her hand

at African drumming. This

level of engagement from

local officials underscores

the event’s significance and

the community’s embrace of

cultural diversity.

Educational and Cultural Value

Doreen’s initiatives have

also been recognised for

their educational value.

By organising events that

celebrate and educate the

community about various

cultures and traditions, she

has helped to bridge gaps

and promote understanding.

The Chief Executive of a

local housing association

commended the ACCN for

sharing their rich culture in

such a vibrant and inclusive

manner. Doreen’s work

serves as an inspiration for

others in the community.

Her dedication to promoting

cultural awareness and unity

demonstrates the impact

that one individual can have

in creating positive change.

By organising events and

educational programs, she

has helped to create a more

inclusive environment where

everyone feels valued and

respected.

Supporting Doreen

Murugi’s Community

Initiatives

Through the African Caribbean

Community Network (ACCN),

Doreen and her team

of volunteers have now

established local collectives

specifically for the Ghanaian,

Nigerian and Zimbabwean

Communities respectively,

and are now expecting to

launch the ACCN in Omagh

soon. For all local Kenyans,

Doreen Murugi’s impactful

work in Northern Ireland can

be supported in various ways

to help bolster her initiatives

and contribute more to the

community’s growth and unity:

●

Volunteer your time

●

●

●

●

●

Attend and help promote

community events

Provide financial support

Collaborate with local

organisations

Advocate for policy

changes

Share your skills

Reflection

The key takeaway from

Doreen Murugi’s story is

the extraordinary power

of community activism as

witnessed in fostering unity

and celebrating diversity. Her

relentless, creative efforts

highlight the importance of

cultural awareness and the

positive impact it can have

on community relations.

Doreen’s work reminds us that

by embracing and celebrating

our differences, we can build

stronger, more inclusive

communities. By embracing

these strategies, you can

contribute to the ongoing

success of Doreen’s community

initiatives and help make a

meaningful impact in Northern

Ireland. Doreen’s journey

as a community activist is a

powerful example of how

dedication and compassion can

drive meaningful change. Her

work continues to inspire and

uplift the community, fostering

a spirit of unity and celebration

of diversity.

46


10TH 10th ANNIVERSARY Anniversary Edition EDITION | JULY | JULY 2025 2025 47

COMMUNITY

UNMASKING

THE ARMOUR

WHY BLACK BOYS IN THE UK DESERVE TO FEEL, CRY AND HEAL

With Gad Turuthi – Coventry, UK

Recently, Gad Turuthi was

deep in reflection, with a cup

of lukewarm tea in hand and

a half-charged phone in the

other, on a stubborn myth

that had quietly dominated

the lives of Black boys across

the Western world, more so

in the UK. A myth so deeply

entrenched it had managed

to pass through generations

without ever being asked for

ID. It is called the “Strong

Black Man” myth, and it has

overstayed its welcome. Like

that one guest who shows

up uninvited to every family

gathering, eats all the meat,

and still asks for takeaway foil.

The myth has long convinced

innumerable Black boys in the

UK that silence is strength.

That tears are a betrayal of

their masculinity; that to ask

for help is to admit defeat.

From toddler tantrums to

teenage turmoil, Black boys are

coached—both explicitly and

through cultural osmosis—that

showing emotion is something

white boys on telly do. Real

Black men, apparently, clench

their jaws, furrow their brows,

and get on with it. Just like

emotional vending machines -

insert some hardship, dispense

some resilience.

48


Of course, there is historical

context. After centuries of being

whipped, hunted, incarcerated,

lynched, and legislated against,

this taught Black men that

showing weakness could literally

be fatal. Emotional armour isn’t

just for show—it is a survival

strategy. During the slave trade,

a bowed head or trembling lip

could cost a man his life. Later,

during segregation and postcolonial

displacement, stoicism

became a badge of honour.

Endurance was mistaken

for empowerment. But this

generational conditioning had

consequences. Fathers who had

never been allowed to feel safe

expressing their fears ended

up raising sons who weren’t

allowed to feel at all. A kind of

emotional trickle-down trauma.

Even in modern-day society, the

media didn’t help. Turn on a film

and there he was—the angry

Black man, the unflappable

soldier, the emotionally

illiterate superhero. Powerful,

yes. Vulnerable? Never.

Hollywood gave them muscles,

but never hearts. And so, the

cycle continued. Boys who

felt sadness or fear learned to

package it as anger, an emotion

society grudgingly allowed

them. Boys who needed a hug

were told to man up. Boys who

needed therapy were told to

go run it off or pray it away.

Meanwhile, inside, they were

crumbling. But because they

looked “strong,” no one saw

the cracks. Teachers interpreted

their outbursts as aggression.

Police read their anxiety as a

threat. Even their own families

mistook their silence for

stability.

Gad had seen it too many times.

Boys who couldn’t articulate

their pain ended up numbing

it. Some with violence. Some

with withdrawal. Some with

substances. All because the

world had convinced them that

to be emotionally literate is to

be soft, and to be soft is to be

unsafe. But what if the myth

is wrong? What if strength

isn’t about being unbothered,

unbreakable, and unshakeable,

but about being able to show

up in all your emotional

fullness? What if real strength

looked like a teenage boy in

therapy, unlearning shame and

reclaiming his voice? What if it

is a father apologising to his son

for never saying “I love you”?

What if the strongest Black

man is the one who cried—and

didn’t hide it?

According to Gad, it’s time to

rewrite the script. And not with

a pencil. With a permanent

marker and all caps. He believed

that emotional intelligence

needed a rebrand in the Black

community, not as a “nice-tohave”

but as a survival tool. The

ability to name, process, and

communicate emotions is not

just psychologically healthy—it

is revolutionary. In a world that

pathologises their existence and

polices their feelings, teaching

Black boys to feel without

shame is an act of resistance.

This transformation wouldn’t

happen by accident. It had to

start at home, where the phrase

“man up” needed to be thrown

into the same bin as expired

ketchup and broken promises.

Parents had to create room for

boys to speak, cry, question, and

explore. Not once. Consistently.

Schools, too, had a role. Instead

of punishing Black boys for what

were often trauma responses,

educators needed to learn how

to respond with empathy. The

school counsellor couldn’t be

an optional afterthought—he

needed to be as central as the

math teacher. And preferably

Black.

Representation matters. Black

boys needed to see Black male

therapists, mentors, educators,

and role models who weren’t

afraid to talk about healing,

softness, and grace. Churches

couldn’t be left behind either.

Instead of spiritualising silence,

they had to become sanctuaries

for emotional honesty. And the

media? Oh, the media needed

to catch up fast. They needed

to stop typecasting Black men

as either damaged goods or

indestructible gladiators. It is

time for nuance, for humanity,

for stories where the hero saves

the day and talks about his

anxiety.

What Gad found most profound

is that this shift wouldn’t make

Black boys weaker. On the

contrary, it would make them

whole. And wholeness is the

kind of strength that couldn’t

be faked or fabricated. It is the

kind that builds leaders, not

just survivors. He imagines a

future where a Black boy could

say, “I’m not okay,” and be

met with support instead of

suspicion. A world where a boy

could choose therapy over thug

life without feeling like he is

betraying his Blackness. Where

healing is seen not as something

women do on Instagram, but as

something men do to stay alive.

Yes, the myth had done its

damage. But it isn’t invincible.

With enough courage,

conversation, and community, it

could be dismantled—brick by

brick, belief by belief. And in its

place, something more honest

and human could rise. In Gad’s

words (if he were to say them

aloud): Black boys weren’t born

to be stoic statues or emotional

robots. They were born to be

radiant, expressive, soft, strong,

and unapologetically alive.

And maybe, just maybe, it’s

time we let them be all of that.

Unmasking the Armour

Why Black Boys in the UK

Deserve to Feel, Cry and Heal


SHAMMAH SPLENDID CENTRE

AND SCHOOL PROFILE

NAME OF SCHOOL:

SHAMMAH SPLENDID

CENTRE AND SCHOOL

PHYSICAL ADDRESS:

NAIROBI, KIBERA

REGION: NAIROBI

COUNTRY: KENYA

POSTAL CODE: 25200-100

NAIROBI

YEAR OF

ESTABLISHMENT: 2013

HEAD OF SCHOOL: MR.

ISAAC AGALO

TELEPHONE: +254 706 064

759/+254 732 343 880

EMAIL:

shammahsplendidcentre@

gmail.com

SCHOOL STATUS:

COMMUNITY SCHOOL

SCHOOL REGISTRATION

STATUS: ACTIVE

LOCATION

The school is located at a

strategic niche at the periphery

of Langata and Kibera slums

where several families have

been forced to live in dismal

adverse poverty. Kibera is

highly populated with over

half a million people which

is equivalent to the entire

population of Luxembourg,

fitting just one square mile.

SCHOOL VISION

To provide holistic education

to the underprivileged in our

community and its surroundings

with complete honesty.

SCHOOL MISSION

To give opportunity to the

learning of the less fortunate in

the community; to enable the

individuals to access adequate

knowledge, attitudes and skills

that will equip them to be

transformed, responsible and

better citizens in this dynamic

world.

SCHOOL MOTTO

“Designed and Determined to

Achieve.”

OUR CORE VALUES

Discipline | Honesty |

Teamwork | God reverence |

Responsiveness

OBJECTIVES OF THE

SCHOOL

1. To be a center for providing

reliability, equality and

sustainable education for

all.

2. To reduce (eradicate)

illiteracy

3. To create public awareness

on HIV/AIDS.

4. To support and care for

orphans and abandoned

children.

5. Tackling drugs and

substance misuse in the

community.

6. Student’s spiritual

nourishment.

7. Environmental

conservation (tree planting

50


and recycling projects).

8. Empowering young women

to remain in school

(tackling early marriage

and teen pregnancies).

9. Eradication of delinquent

children in the society.

10. Educate students on issues

of reproductive health.

11. Empowering students to

become self-reliant.

BENEFITS IN

COMMUNITY

It will diminish the effects of

crime, drugs and substance

abuse and poverty and this will

lead to a transformative society.

RELIGION

Shammah Splendid Centre

and School is a Christian

school. However, we usually

accommodate all students and

give them their rightful freedom

of worship. We therefore have

both Christians and Muslims

comfortably studying in our

school.

BACKGROUND

INFORMATION

We are Open minded, outward

looking and perserverent

community, having a big dream

for the society we serve since

education is the pillar upon

which this bright future is laid.

Our Centre targets the

students who have the thirst to

acquire education but due to

unfortunate circumstances they

have not been able to access the

education system. Many of our

students have been orphaned or

single-parent due to the HIV/

AIDS pandemic, or have either

been molested in some way or

the other or have been involved

in petty crime. Our center is

therefore a beacon of hope

for them since we provide not

only high-quality sustainable

education but also give them

a chance to feel valued and

listened to. This enables these

students to shun away social

evils such as crime and drugs

and substance abuse menace as

well as helping their students

out of immense poverty.

In Shammah Splendid Centre

and School, we are committedly

designed and determined to

help less fortunate children

achieve their dreams as we

create students who are

responsible and can fit into the

over changing dynamic world.

SCHOOL PROGRAMS

Programs at our school begin

at 0630 hrs to 1700 hrs in the

evening. This is a daily based

program running from Monday

to Friday with special programs

for secondary and middle

TO- PAGE 54


Motherhood,

Autism and New

Beginnings

OF

STRENGTHS

UNSEEN THE

CAROL CIKU OF

Raising a child is an experience that

transforms, challenges, and nurtures

in ways no one can fully anticipate.

Carol Ciku, a Kenyan-born mother

in the UK city of Leicester, has

travelled a life journey shaped by the

profound realities of neurodiversity,

and has found herself redefining

the meaning of strength, patience,

and unconditional love. Balancing

the emotional and practical aspects

of raising her autistic son, Lloyd,

she embraces motherhood as a

continuous learning curve — one

that demands persistence, advocacy,

and an unwavering belief in the

potential within every child. For

Carol, motherhood is not just

about providing care but about

actively championing the needs

of her son, ensuring he gets the

support necessary to thrive. As

each day presents new challenges,

Carol chooses to remain steadfast,

learning to celebrate the small

victories that come with his

growth. Whether it is a new word

spoken after months of silence or a

moment of unexpected eye contact,

these milestones are reminders of

UNSEEN STRENGTHS OF CAROL CIKU

UK

, UK

OF L E I C E S T E R

L E I C E S T E R

resilience, both hers and for her

handsome teenage son, Lloyd.

Understanding Autism — A

Journey of Discovery

Coming to terms with her son’s

autism diagnosis was a defining

moment for Carol, shifting her

perspective on parenting and the

world around her. Like many parents,

she initially experienced a flood of

emotions — confusion, fear, and

uncertainty. The lack of widespread

understanding about autism in her

community added another layer of

complexity, making the journey even

more isolating. Instead of allowing

misconceptions to dictate her path,

Carol chose education as her armour.

Researching tirelessly, joining

support groups, and connecting

with other parents navigating similar

realities, she transformed into an

ardent advocate — not just for

her son Lloyd but for every other

Black child in the UK whose needs

are often overlooked. She began

to understand that autism is not

a limitation but a different way of

52


All Photos: Ciku Carol

experiencing the world. Her son’s

unique perspective challenged

her to reimagine communication,

redefine success, and create an

environment where he can flourish

and be himself.

Breaking Societal Barriers

Living in a society where disabilities,

particularly invisible ones like

autism, are often misunderstood,

Carol faced the weight of judgment

and stigma. Relatives, friends,

and even strangers offered

unsolicited advice, suggesting

that she should discipline her

son Lloyd differently or pray

harder for a “cure.” Their words,

though often well-intentioned,

reflected a fundamental lack

of awareness. Rather than

shrinking under the pressure of

societal expectations, Carol stood

firm, pushing back against the

ignorance that seeks to define

her son’s future. She educated

those around her, explaining

that autism is not a condition to

be “fixed” but an identity to be

embraced. Through her social

media advocacy, opportunities

through community engagements,

and open conversations, Carol

has gradually become a voice for

change, encouraging others to shift

their perspectives and embrace

neurodiversity.

Rediscovering Herself Amidst

the Challenges

While dedicating herself to her

son’s needs, Carol realised that

motherhood, particularly with the

additional complexities of raising a

neurodivergent child, often requires

the sacrifice of personal ambitions.

However, she refused to lose herself

in the process. Seeking balance,

she found moments of self-care,

whether through journaling, long

walks, or listening to music that

soothed her spirit. Redefining what

success looks like, she began to see

strength in vulnerability, growth

in the unexpected, and beauty

in the chaos. Leaning on faith,

friendship, and the support of a few

understanding family members, she

learned that asking for help is not

a sign of weakness but a necessary

step in sustaining herself for the

journey ahead.

Embracing New Beginnings with

Hope

Every day, today, Carol wakes up

with renewed determination,

knowing that her son’s progress,

no matter how slow, is meaningful.

Autism has reshaped her world,

forcing her to view life through a

different lens — one that highlights

patience, resilience, and unwavering

love. Through her journey, she

becomes an inspiration, not only

to other parents raising children

with autism but to anyone

facing adversity. She proves that

within every challenge lies an

opportunity for transformation,

that within every struggle exists

an unseen strength waiting to be

discovered. As she moves forward,

Carol continues advocating for

her son, educating those around

her, and embracing the beauty of

their shared journey — one filled

with hope, courage, and endless

possibilities


SHAMMAH SPLENDID CENTRE AND SCHOOL PROFILE

school on Saturday. In our

school the learners are divided

into several major groups based

on age groups and capability.

Shammah Splendid Education

Centre offers Early Childhood

Education: Preschool,

Transitional Kindergarten, and

Kindergarten. The full-day

Early Childhood program is

designed to foster a love of

learning in nurturing spiritually

oriented children who grow

in spirit and stature in a faithbased

environment.

Weekly themes, prayers

and Christian songs during

gatherings and school

assemblies every morning,

develop the children’s

spiritually and build a solid

knowledge base.

Class experiences which

include gross and fine motor

activities, exposure to math and

science concepts, and a variety

of opportunities to develop

language, literacy, social, and

emotional skills. Children

receive additional instruction in

Religion, Art, and Music, along

with physical movement and

recess. Preschool students have

a daily rest time after classes.

Elementary School: Grades

1-5. The elementary years are

aimed at the growth of the

children’s academic, spiritual,

moral, intellectual, social,

cultural, physical, and selfdisciplined

endowments. At

this stage, teachers encourage

learning through exploration,

as well as building confidence

through experimentation and

communication. Learners

discover how to develop

their own unique gifts and

to celebrate those of others.

Sacrament preparation is

incorporated into the school

day.

Middle School: Grades 6-8.

The middle school program

emphasizes academics,

affective development,

creativity, individual and

collaborative student-oriented

activities, communication

skills, experiential approaches

to instruction, exploratory

elective classes, and high

school readiness. Learners

become critical thinkers, and

gain a deeper understanding

of their own morality, respect

for themselves and others,

and ways they can truly make

a difference in the world by

serving others.

Secondary Level

We have form one to form

four who sit for the national

KCSE Examination. After form

four education they graduate

to colleges and vocational

training.

TO- PAGE 65

54



SHAMMAH SPLENDID CENTRE & SCHOOL NAIROBI

55

EXCEPTIONAL WOMEN ABROAD

With Love from the ‘Truth Talk’ Show

The Rise of YouTuber Lisah Muthoni Mwangi in Scandinavia

Founder and Talk Show Host

Lisah Muthoni Mwangi is a devout

Christian Kenyan woman of faith based

in Stockholm, Sweden, in the heart of

Scandinavia, who has made significant

strides in the media landscape with

her inspirational YouTube family talk

show, The Truth Talk Show. Rooted

in her strong Christian values and

driven by a passion for meaningful

conversations, Lisah uses her platform

to address real-life issues affecting

families, relationships, and spiritual

growth, offering wisdom, healing,

and hope to her diverse audience.

Her journey from Kenya to Sweden,

despite the challenges, stands as a

powerful testament to her resilience,

vision, and unwavering commitment

to truth, integrity, and authenticity.

Her show has created a safe and

empowering space where voices often

overlooked are heard and celebrated.

Lisah’s influence continues to grow,

as she remains a beacon of faith and

purpose, committed to transforming

lives through open dialogue and Godcentered

principles.

Upbringing and Family Life

Lisah loves to introduce herself as “the

girl who grew up in Huruma Estate near

‘Kiamaiko’ neighbourhood as her home,

with ancestral roots in Murang’a … is also

a girl with Swedish ‘atmosfär,’ fulfilling

her purpose in life. She is born to be a

winner, as a chosen one, and blessed with

all spiritual blessings in heavenly places

in Christ.” Born and raised in Huruma

Estate, Nairobi, Lisah’s roots trace back

to Murang’a County in Central Kenya.

She attended Sunflower Primary School

(Primary Education) in Salimpur, Jafrabad,

Sitakunda, Chittagong, Bangladesh, before

proceeding to Komothai Girls Technical High

School in Kiratina, Kenya, in the mid-1990s.

Lisah’s upbringing in a vibrant community

instilled in her a strong sense of identity

and resilience. A devoted Christian deeply

committed to her faith, Lisah serves as a

worship leader in her local church. She is a

proud mother of three amazing children—

two boys and a girl. Her eldest, Tiffany, is a

16-year-old and a spitting image and spirit

of her mother. Lisah’s family is her anchor,

and she often speaks about the support

and love she receives from her wonderful

family and friends. Together, they have built

a strong and supportive family unit that has

been instrumental in Lisah’s journey.

Overcoming Challenges in Sweden

The show’s impact in overcoming challenges

in Sweden is quite evident. Lisah’s journey

began with a simple yet profound idea: to

create a platform where real stories and real

conversations could take place. She wanted

to address issues that matter, from personal

struggles to societal challenges, and provide

a space for honest dialogue. This vision led

to the creation of “The Truth Talk Show,”

which quickly gained popularity for its

candid and impactful discussions.”The Truth

Talk Show” has become a beacon of hope

and inspiration for many. Lisah’s approach

to storytelling is rooted in her belief that

truth has the power to set people free.

The show covers a wide range of topics,

including mental health, relationships, faith,

and personal growth. Each episode features

guests who share their experiences and

insights, fostering a sense of community

and understanding among viewers. Lisah’s

journey has not been without challenges.

Moving to a new country and establishing

56


herself in the media

industry required

determination and

hard work. She faced

cultural differences,

language barriers,

and the pressure

of building a brand

from scratch. The

Swedish system’s

challenges, such

as integration

policies and social

sustainability

issues, added to her

struggles. However,

her unwavering faith

and dedication to

her mission kept

her going. Lisah’s

resilience is evident

in the success of

her show and the

positive impact

it has had on her

audience.

Lisah’s Church

Involvement

Lisah’s involvement

in her local church

is a significant

part of her life. As

a worship leader,

she plays a crucial

role in guiding

and inspiring the

congregation through music and

prayer. Her passion for worship

and her deep faith are reflected

in her commitment to the church

community. Lisah often integrates

her faith into her talk show,

discussing spiritual topics and

encouraging viewers to find strength

in their beliefs. Regarding her passion

for Marriage, Parenting, and Family

Matters, Lisah frequently addresses

these topics on her show, sharing

insights and advice based on her

own experiences. Lisah believes that

strong family bonds are essential

for personal growth and societal

well-being. Her discussions on

marriage emphasise the importance

of communication, mutual respect,

and love. She also provides practical

parenting tips, focusing on nurturing

and guiding children to become

confident and compassionate

individuals.

Prominent Guests

Lisah has interviewed several

prominent figures from Africa on her

talk show, including:

● Pastor Lucy Paynter: Founder and

lead pastor of Glorious Power

Church

● Dianah Kamande HSC: Founder

of Come Together Widows and

Orphans Organisation (CTWOO)

● Antony Muiruri: Based in Greece,

a motivational speaker and host

of the popular “Now Tell Us”

podcast series

● “Balozi Baraza”: Head of

Research for the Karibu KUK

Magazine in the UK, and a

mental health worker in Further

Education

● Pastor Rosemary Njage:

Celebrated globally for her

brilliant music, unwavering

faith and dedication to her

community.

● Mr. Robert Burale: A renowned

motivational speaker, image

consultant, and pastor.

● Christian Shusho: The Queen

of East African Gospel from

Tanzania

● Pastor T Mwangi: Senior Pastor

of Life Church International in

Limuru, Kenya

● Hon. James Gakuya: Prominent

Kenyan politician and Member of

Parliament for Embakasi North

Constituency.

Expanding Horizons

As “The Truth Talk Show” gained

traction, Lisah expanded her reach

by incorporating various multimedia

platforms. The show is now available

on YouTube, social media, and

podcast platforms, allowing her to

connect with a global audience. This

expansion has enabled Lisah to touch

more lives and amplify the voices

of those who might otherwise go

unheard.

Celebrating Milestones

Lisah is deeply committed to

community engagement. She

regularly collaborates with local

organisations and participates in

events that promote social justice,

mental health awareness, and cultural exchange. Her

involvement in the community has strengthened her

connection with her audience and reinforced the show’s

mission of fostering understanding and empathy. 2025

marks a significant milestone for Lisah and “The Truth

Talk Show.” The show has reached its 3rd anniversary,

a testament to its enduring relevance and impact. To

celebrate this achievement, Lisah plans to host a special

anniversary episode featuring prominent guests from

Kenya, Sweden, and other parts of the diaspora. The

episode will include performances, reflections on the

show’s journey, and words of encouragement for the

future.

Reflection

Founder

and Talk

Show

Host

Lisah Muthoni Mwangi’s steady rise as a leading

voice in the Diaspora through hosting “The Truth Talk

Show” underscores the power of resilience, truth, and

community. Her journey from Kenya to Sweden and

her commitment to honest storytelling have made a

significant impact on her audience. This story highlights

the importance of staying true to one’s vision, embracing

challenges, and fostering connections to create

meaningful change.

10TH ANNIVERSARY 7TH KINGS EDITION | JULY JUNE 2025 2024 57

EXCEPTIONAL

WOMEN ABROAD

From Power Suits to

Coffee Beans

HOW MARGARET NYAMUMBO

OF KISII BREWED HER WAY TO THE TOP

A Shift in Aroma and Ambition

Margaret Nyamumbo’s journey

from corporate finance to social

entrepreneurship defies traditional

career logic. At 37, armed with

a Harvard MBA and a job in the

financial mecca of New York,

Margaret made the unconventional

choice to leave it all behind to build

something close to her roots—a

coffee company. But her decision

wasn’t just about launching a brand;

it was about rewriting narratives - for

herself, for Kenyan coffee farmers,

and women in agriculture.

Roots in Kisii - Where Coffee Grew

but Few Sipped

Margaret’s story begins in Kisii, a

region nestled in the highlands

of western Kenya, known for its

agricultural produce, especially

coffee. Her upbringing in a family

of farmers and small-scale traders

shaped her relationship with labour

and resilience, though not necessarily

with coffee. Ironically, despite

growing up near coffee fields, she

didn’t drink the beverage as a child.

In Kenya, tea was the drink of choice,

and coffee was cultivated solely for

export, largely disconnected from

local consumption or appreciation.

It wasn’t until college in the

United States that coffee entered

Margaret’s life, first as a late-night

survival tool and later as a symbol

of sophistication and ritual on

Wall Street. While in finance, she

observed how many consumer

brands, especially those in the food

and beverage industry, had humble

beginnings. This revelation planted

the first seed for what would become

Kahawa 1893.

Wall Street Lessons and the Birth of

Kahawa 1893

While her finance career was

demanding, it was also enlightening.

Margaret witnessed how brands

could grow from side hustles to

household names, fueled by vision,

strategy, and passion. She started

asking herself: why wasn’t Kenyan

coffee—some of the finest in the

world—making waves in the very

country that worshipped coffee

culture? In 2017, she decided to act.

She named her company Kahawa

1893—“kahawa” being the Swahili

word for coffee and “1893” marking

the year coffee was first commercially

grown in Kenya. The brand wasn’t just

a nod to history but a vision of what

African coffee could represent in the

global marketplace.

Starting Up - From Confusion to

Conviction

Not everyone welcomed her

leap with open arms. Her family,

especially her parents, struggled to

comprehend why someone would

swap Wall Street prestige for a

startup involving coffee beans and

packaging materials. In their eyes,

Margaret’s move was borderline

irrational—even embarrassing. To

mitigate risk, she initially took a oneyear

sabbatical. But the “side hustle”

quickly became an all-consuming

commitment. Margaret wore every

hat: founder, roaster, designer,

marketer, and customer support rep.

Every dollar earned went back into

the business. Sleep became optional.

Determination wasn’t.

Crisis and Resilience - The 2020

Turning Point

Just when Kahawa 1893 began

gaining traction, the COVID-19

pandemic struck. Like many small

businesses, hers faced an existential

threat. Sales plummeted. Supply

chains faltered. Margaret poured in

her savings and racked up $50,000

in credit card debt just to keep the

business afloat. The dream teetered

on the brink. Then came a phone

call that changed everything. Trader

Joe’s, the popular American grocery

chain, expressed interest in her

coffee. It was the breakthrough she


desperately needed. Not long after,

other retail giants like Target and

Sprouts followed suit. In a matter of

months, her Kenyan-grown, Black

woman-owned, woman-powered

coffee was no longer a niche

product—it was in mainstream

American supermarkets.

Empowering Women at the

Source

At its heart, Kahawa 1893 is more

than just a coffee company. It’s

a vehicle for economic justice.

Margaret understood the

unspoken truth of Kenya’s coffee

sector: although women perform

the majority of the labour on

coffee farms—sometimes over

90%—they see very little of the

profit. Patriarchal land ownership

structures often keep women in

financial dependency. To counter

this, Kahawa 1893 built a tipping

system into its packaging. Each bag

comes with a QR code allowing

customers to directly tip the

women who grew the beans. These

tips go straight to the farmers’

mobile wallets—fast, secure, and

empowering. It’s a form of digital

financial justice in action, allowing

consumers to become active

participants in redistributing value.

Building a Brand with Soul and

Substance

Margaret’s personal touch remains

evident in every element of the

brand. From sourcing beans to

designing the packaging inspired

by safari landscapes and African

textiles, she ensures that Kahawa

1893 stands out, both visually

and ethically. It’s a celebration

of African heritage and female

empowerment, all packaged in a

rich cup of coffee. She also refuses

to compromise on quality. By

working closely with smallholder

farmers, Margaret maintains

control over sourcing and flavour

integrity. Every bean tells a story

of diligence, community, and

ambition. The result is not just a

great product—it’s a brand that

resonates with a growing audience

of socially-conscious consumers.

Looking Ahead - Scaling with

Purpose

With Kahawa 1893 now profitable

and debt-free, Margaret’s sights

are set on expansion. Her goal is

to bring more coffee drinkers into

the fold, not just as consumers,

but as co-creators of change. The

bigger the business grows, the

more women it can empower. She

dreams of expanding into new

markets, introducing new coffee

products, and amplifying the

visibility of African-grown produce.

But even with her growing success,

Margaret remains grounded in her

mission. For her, every cup brewed

is a step toward economic dignity

for women farmers and a more

equitable value chain.

Reflection - Brewing More Than

Coffee

Margaret Nyamumbo’s story is

a reminder that success doesn’t

always follow the traditional

path. Sometimes, it takes walking

away from comfort, embracing

uncertainty, and grinding—literally

and figuratively—for what you

believe in. Her journey from Wall

Street to Kenyan coffee farms is

about more than switching careers;

it’s about reclaiming value, creating

opportunity, and proving that

purpose-driven business can be

both profitable and powerful. Her

message is clear: With courage,

clarity, and a little caffeine, we can

all change the world—one brew at

a time.


SPECIAL FEATURE

60


FROM PAIN

TO PURPOSE

The Untold Story of Maryben Akinyi Omollo and Her New Healing Mission

In the heart of Kenya, where

resilience often blooms in the

face of adversity, a remarkable

woman named Maryben Akinyi

Omollo has turned her personal

pain into a beacon of hope for

others. Her story is not just one of

survival—it is a testament to the

power of purpose, the strength of

the human spirit, and the healing

force of community.

A History Etched in

Struggle and Strength

The Maryben Foundation was born

from the ashes of Maryben’s own

harrowing experiences. Between

2014 and 2021, she endured a

series of traumatic events that

would have broken many: seven

years of mental health struggles,

five suicide attempts, and a lifethreatening

miscarriage. These

were not isolated incidents but a

relentless storm that threatened

to extinguish her light. Yet, in the

depths of despair, Maryben found

a spark—a realization that her

suffering could serve a greater

purpose.In 2021, she founded

the Maryben Foundation, not

as a monument to her pain,

but as a sanctuary for others

navigating similar darkness. Her

journey toward healing became

the cornerstone of a movement

dedicated to mental health

awareness, emotional wellness,

and community empowerment.

A Vision Rooted in Healing

and Empowerment

At the core of the Maryben

Foundation lies a powerful vision:

to create a world where mental

health is prioritized, emotional

wounds are acknowledged,

and healing is accessible to all.

Maryben envisions a society

where individuals are not

defined by their trauma but are

empowered by their ability to

overcome it.This vision is not

abstract—it is deeply personal.

Maryben’s lived experience

informs every initiative, every

outreach, and every conversation

the Foundation undertakes. She

understands, intimately, the

isolation that comes with mental

illness, the stigma that silences

cries for help, and the courage it

takes to seek healing. Her vision

is to dismantle these barriers

and replace them with empathy,

education, and empowerment.

The Mission: From

Awareness to Action

The Maryben Foundation’s

mission is as multifaceted as the

challenges it seeks to address.

It operates on three primary

pillars: mental health advocacy,

emotional wellness education,

and community support.

1. Mental Health Advocacy:

The Foundation works

tirelessly to raise awareness

about mental health issues,

particularly in African

communities where stigma

remains a significant

obstacle. Through campaigns,

workshops, and public

speaking engagements,

Maryben and her team

challenge misconceptions

and promote open dialogue.

2. Emotional Wellness

Education: Recognizing

that healing begins

with understanding,

the Foundation offers

educational resources and

training programs designed

to equip individuals with

the tools to manage stress,

build resilience, and support

others. These programs are

tailored to diverse audiences,

from schoolchildren to

corporate teams, ensuring

that emotional literacy

becomes a shared language.

3. Community Support: Perhaps

the most transformative

aspect of the Foundation’s

work is its commitment

to building supportive

communities. Whether

through peer support

groups, counseling services,

or wellness retreats, the

Maryben Foundation creates

safe spaces where individuals

can connect, share, and heal

together.

The Maryben Foundation also

collaborates with mental health

CONT- PAGE 64


DESIGN

GRAPHICS

BUSINESS CARDS, FLYERS,

E-FLYERS, BANNERS,

BROCHURES, MAGAZINES,

ANNUAL REPORTS,

TSHIRTS WEB GRAPHICS AND

MAINTAINANCE, PRESENTATIONS

AND MORE

62



— 2015–2025”



10TH 10th ANNIVERSARY Anniversary EDITION Edition | | JULY 2025

63 63

FROM- PAGE 61

professionals, educators, and

community leaders to ensure

that its programs are both

impactful and sustainable. It is

not just about offering help—it

is about fostering a culture of

care that endures.

A Light That Keeps

Shining

Maryben Akinyi Omollo’s story is

one of extraordinary courage. But

what makes it truly remarkable is

her decision to use her pain as a

platform for change. In founding

the Maryben Foundation, she

has not only reclaimed her

own narrative but has also

given countless others the tools

to rewrite theirs.Her journey

reminds us that healing is not

a destination but a continuous

process—one that is made

easier when we walk it together.

The Maryben Foundation is

more than an organization; it

is a movement, a community,

and a lifeline for those who feel

unseen and unheard.

In a world that often rushes past

invisible wounds, Maryben’s

work is a powerful reminder to

pause, to listen, and to care. Her

legacy is not just in the lives she

has touched, but in the hope

she continues to inspire.As we

reflect on her journey, we are

called to consider our own roles

in fostering mental wellness.

Whether by supporting a

friend, educating ourselves, or

advocating for change, we all

have a part to play. And in doing

so, we honor the spirit of the

Maryben Foundation—a spirit

of resilience, compassion, and

unwavering hope.

64


FROM- PAGE 54

SHAMMAH SPLENDID

CENTRE AND SCHOOL

PROFILE

Not all the students are able to join colleges or

vocational training due to lack of finance

CO-CURRICULUM ACTIVITIES

Besides academic pursuit, our school is the

hub and hotbed of vibrant talents with our

children flourishing in various games. We have

also produced the best team in soccer for both

boys and girls even with the limited resources.

Besides football, our students also participate in

athletics, drama and music festivals, volleyball,

handball among others. This therefore is a

clear indication that success is not what you

accomplish in life but what you aspire others to

do.

OUR APPEAL

Through Kenya and friends in the park and

other well-wishers, we have been able to serve

more than four hundred less fortunate children

from Kibera slums.

We are looking for partners and friends to assist

the school and the students in acquiring the

necessary life skills to continue their education

into vocational training and to develop the right

attitudes for prosperity.

We hope and pray that through our services

and your help, we will touch and transform the

lives of many young people. With your support,

we will expand our services. We are willing to

offer our services with partners from different

backgrounds and walks of life for provision

of holistic education. We are in need of your

partnership to impact the lives of the children

today.

The school’s environment is friendly to allow

learners to like the school and learning in

general.

“It’s such a blessing to have children in a school

where God is part of everything they learn and

they are appreciated despite their backgrounds.”

END

10th Anniversary Edition | JULY 2025

65

Rebecca Nekesa

Namunyu Dolyniuk

A LIFE OF COMPASSION, COURAGE, AND COMMITMENT

A Peaceful Heartfelt

Farewell

On January 9, 2025, Rebecca

Nekesa Namunyu Dolyniuk

(Beckie) passed away peacefully

at her home in Winnipeg,

Manitoba, Canada, surrounded

by her loving family. At just 46

years old, the brave Kenyan

Diasporan had fought a 6-yearlong

courageous battle with

cancer, facing each day with

strength and grace. Although

largely unknown to many

Kenyans in the Diaspora,

Beckie’s passing has left a

profound void in the lives of

those who knew and loved her

both in Canada and Kenya.

Early Life and Relocation to

Canada

Born on June 1, 1978, in

Makueni, Kenya, Rebecca was

raised in a family deeply rooted

in faith and service.

Her parents, nowretired

Salvation

Army Majors Peter

and Margaret

Namunyu, of

Webuye in Western

Kenya, instilled

in her the values

of compassion

and dedication.

In 2004, Rebecca moved to

Canada to pursue studies in

social work at Booth College in

Winnipeg. Though she initially

intended to return home after

her studies, she chose to stay,

continuing her education at the

University of Manitoba, where

she earned both her bachelor’s

and master’s degrees in social

work. Winnipeg soon became

As a social worker, she served

in various organisations before

establishing her own private practice

as a psychologist. Her work was

marked by empathy, resilience, and a

deep commitment to her clients.

her permanent home and

remained so up to the time of

her passing.

Love, Family, and Citizenship

66


COURA

MPASSION, CO OF LIFE GA

E, AND CO M MIT MENT

In 2012, Rebecca met Troy

Dolyniuk. Their connection

was immediate and deep. As

Rebecca often joked, “We aren’t

spring chickens anymore,” and

the couple married in 2013.

They welcomed their first child,

Mwamba, in 2014, and their

daughter, Lulu, followed in

2016. Rebecca proudly became

a Canadian citizen in 2015,

embracing her new home with

joy and gratitude.

A Calling to Serve

Rebecca’s professional life was

a reflection of her heart. As

a social worker, she served in

various organisations before

establishing her own private

practice as a psychologist.

Her work was marked by

empathy, resilience, and a deep

commitment to her clients.

Even after her cancer diagnosis

in May 2019, she continued to

provide therapy, balancing her

own health challenges with

her unwavering dedication to

others.

Gratitude and Final Days

Rebecca’s final months were

made more comfortable thanks

to the compassionate care of Dr.

Pat Harris and the Cancer Care

team at Grace Hospital. Special

thanks are extended to her

palliative care nurses—Chanelle,

Sheila, Linda, and Charis—and

to Johanna and the home

care aides who helped ensure

Rebecca could remain at home,

surrounded by love and peace.

Honouring Her Life

A celebration of Rebecca’s life

was held on January 17, 2025,

at Elim Chapel in Winnipeg.

Friends, family, and community

members gathered to

remember her warmth, wisdom,

and unwavering spirit. She

was laid to rest the following

day at Hespeler Cemetery in

Niverville, Manitoba. Rebecca

is survived by her husband,

Troy; children Mwamba and

Lulu; her parents; siblings John

(Baraza), Ruth, Rispah, and

James; Troy’s siblings Sean and

Lynn; and numerous nieces and

nephews. Her legacy lives on in

the lives she touched and the

love she gave so freely.



— 2015–2025”



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10TH 10th ANNIVERSARY Anniversary EDITION Edition | | JULY 2025

71

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— 2015–2025”



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— 2015–2025”



10th Anniversary Edition |


JULY 2025 73

A FRIC A C R O SS W O R D

KARIBU QUIZ CORNER

AFRICA CROSS

WORD

Looking for a fun way to

learn the names of Africa?

Look no further than this

word search puzzle! Use the

provided clues to identify

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grid. The grid itself consists

of a pattern of horizontal and

vertical intersecting words.

The challenge is that the

words are hidden. You have

to figure them out! The clues

in a crossword puzzle point to

the missing words. The clues

are generally single words

themselves or short phrases.

ANIMALS

OF THE

SAVANNAH

Word Search Animals of the

Savannah Word Search

Looking for a fun way to

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animals? Look no further

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Featuring different animals

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this puzzle challenges you

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74

AFRICAN COUNTRIES WORD SEARCH

Looking for

a fun way

to learn

the names

of African

countries?

Look no

further than this word search

puzzle!

Featuring a range of countries

from across the continent, this

puzzle challenges you to find each

one hidden among a sea of letters.

With each successful find, you’ll

gain a deeper appreciation for the

rich cultural heritage and diverse

geography of Africa. So, what are

you waiting for?

Grab a pencil and get started

today!

KARIBU QUIZ CORNER

KARIBU SUDOKU

Fill all the empty boxes with a

number 1-9 so that no number

repeats in the row, column, or

boxes.

10TH 10th ANNIVERSARY Anniversary EDITION Edition | | JULY 2025 75

SPONSORS & SUPPORTERS

76


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Wishing you a wonderful start to the week

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10th Anniversary Edition | JULY 2025 79

• Affordable Housing

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Karibu Magazine 18thJuly 2025

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