Friends of Ngong Road

We empower Nairobi children living in poverty to transform their lives through education and support, leading to employment.

Archives for May 2023

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Transformative Story of Fammy

My name is Fammy. I was raised by my aunt It was tough and I could barely share my emotion which forced me to move in with my aunt whom I was open with and could relate to girls-related problems considering I was almost in my teenage years.

I initially learned about the program from a family acquaintance who also happens to be a board member of the Ngong Road Children’s Foundation (NRCF). My aunt made an application to the program, passed an interview, and I was admitted. I got to join one of the program’s focus schools and sat for my Kenya Certificate of Primary Education (KCPE) in 2014. 

In 2015, I joined a national-level girls’ high school in Narok County. I studied there for four years, after which I sat for my national examinations. Achieving commendable grades brought joy and accomplishment, as it allowed me to pursue their chosen career at their chosen university. Completed NRCF certificate course in Computer packages before university career. In September 2019, I proceeded to join Kabarak University in Nakuru County to take a Bachelor’s Degree in the field of Mass Communication. I saw the university as a place of growth and learning, providing me with valuable opportunities.     

During my 3rd year of university, I gained experience at a reputable news agency through attachment. This experience allowed me to interact with different individuals, gain valuable skills, and develop my professional portfolio. I completed my 4-year course in April and I am awaiting graduation which will take place in December. Recently joined NRCF’s TechMates program, focusing on Digital Marketing to enhance skills and increase employability chances.

I am grateful to the NRCF program for the support they have given me, especially in my studies. I have been able to benefit from quality education and now that I am about to graduate, I am honored to have been part of this program. Thank you for helping me transform my life. 

Click here to transform a child’s life. 

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Sexual Reproductive Health Training Update

Education requires nutrition, good health, and a safe living environment for effective learning.  To maximize student success, we support the health and well-being of our students by providing regular meals and medical care and support and training programs for Sexual and Reproductive Health, Drug Awareness and Abuse, and Mental Health. 

High school students received Sexual Reproductive Health training at NRCF offices during school break. The training started on the 25th to the 28th of April at the NRCF offices. This training aimed to equip the students with the essential knowledge to make informed decisions regarding their sexual and reproductive well-being and it was being facilitated by Youth Peer Providers (YPP) who have undergone training by Parenthood Global. 

Some of the topics covered include:

  • Mental health: Understanding the impact of mental well-being on overall and where and when to seek support when needed
  •  Drug and substance abuse: Recognizing the risks associated with substance abuse and developing skills to resist peer pressure
  • Teenage pregnancy: Exploring the consequences of early pregnancy and fostering awareness about responsible sexual behavior
  • Abortion: Emphasizes informed decisions about abortion, discussing legal aspects, health risks, and support systems for students.
  • STIs: Educating on prevention methods, testing, treatment, and reducing stigma
  • Menstrual hygiene: Educating people about menstruation, eradicating its stigma, and offering helpful advice on how to manage menstrual hygiene.
  • Contraceptives: Introducing various contraceptive methods, their effectiveness, and ensuring the students understand their rights and choices regarding contraception
  • Consent: Discussing the significance of consent in relationships, emphasizing mutual respect, and promoting healthy communication

The SRH training was beneficial, addressing relevant topics and providing a safe space for discussions. Interactions with Youth Peer Providers provided relatable role models who understood students’ perspectives and concerns. This peer-to-peer approach promoted an open and non-judgemental environment, encouraging the students to actively participate.

Through this initiative, we continue to contribute to the holistic development and well-being of the students and we are more motivated to support such initiatives.  

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Alumni Small Business Training

In recognition of the growing importance of small businesses in the Kenyan economy, we took the initiative to provide a comprehensive training program for our alumni who either have existing small businesses or are planning to venture into the business industry.

The training program intends to empower alumni with essential skills and knowledge for navigating business challenges effectively and achieving success.

It conducted over two months, has covered a range of topics essential for small business owners to thrive in a competitive market.

The training was being conducted by Be The Leader (BTL) led by Lydia Ontiri at the Lutheran Church along Ngong Road. The training provided a comprehensive understanding of various aspects of small business management. Some of the topics covered included:

  • Generation of business idea

The participants learned effective techniques to generate innovative business ideas and identify gaps in the market. They gained insights into market research, customer analysis, and the importance of value propositions in developing a business concept.

  • Writing and presenting business plans for a grant request

Acquiring skills in crafting business plans to secure grants and funding involves learning to present business goals, strategies, and the impact of the business.

  • Financial management

Understanding the financial aspects of their business and learning risk management to safely safeguard their ventures

  • Marketing and pitching

They also gained insights into marketing segmentation, branding of their businesses, and customer acquisition techniques. Additionally, they have sharpened their pitching skills to effectively communicate their business ideas

An exhibition took place on the 19th of March at the NRCF offices. The exhibition provided an opportunity for the trainees to showcase their products.

Two Strathmore University judges assessed displays, accompanied by 2 student exhibitors showcasing their business products at the event.

The training has successfully equipped 10 alumni with skills in business management and we would like to express our gratitude to Be The Leader for providing training and guidance to these alumni. 

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The Inspiring Story of Hillary

My name is Hillary. I have distinct recollections of my time residing with my parents and siblings. During my childhood, my mother’s schedule was quite occupied with tending to my younger siblings. As a result, one day when she was away from home, I took the opportunity to venture around the neighborhood.

I encountered a group of friends playing at a school compound, and I decided to join them. Later, I learned that Ngong Road Children’s Foundation was holding their Saturday program at that time in this location.

I persisted in returning until I was fortunate enough to secure an interview. I passed the interview and joined the program. Since then, I have achieved a lot academically and in other areas. I’ve earned awards for academics and led camps between 2017 and 2019, showcasing both scholastic excellence and leadership skills.

I did well in my Kenya Certificate of Primary Education (KCPE), and I joined a provincial-level boys’ high school. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, I completed high school a year later than I was supposed to.

I joined Moi University to pursue a course in Social Work. Driven by sincere passion, I’ve chosen this course to optimize conditions for others’ success, reflecting my genuine commitment.

Before joining Moi University, I was trained as a Youth Peer Provider (YPP) by the program, and I have since been facilitating Sexual Reproductive Health talks amongst my peers and younger students in the program. As the chairperson of the YPP group, I find fulfillment in actively promoting awareness, particularly among teenagers.

Currently on an internship at Ngong Road Children’s Foundation under the Secondary Department. I feel fulfilled because I am not only putting into practice what I am learning in school, but I am also giving back to the NRCF community. I aspire to complete my degree and hopefully take a master’s, as I also want to become a lecturer.

The NRCF program has had a profoundly positive impact on my life by providing me with quality education, for which I am truly grateful.

Transform a life.    

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Celebrating Mother’s Day

As we celebrate Mother’s Day, it’s important to recognize and appreciate the hard work and dedication of all the amazing mothers who are part of the NRCF and Friends of Ngong Road family. 

A supportive parent/guardian is essential for student enrollment in a program. Moms actively participate by monitoring their children’s progress and attending meetings at learning institutions. Female parents/guardians dominate Annual General Meetings, focusing on their children’s success and program updates. Mothers actively participate in their children’s lives, increasing their chances of success.

We also want to thank all the mothers who have generously supported the NRCF program either through direct sponsorship of a child or donations. Your contributions have made it possible for us to provide education, healthcare, and basic needs to children in need. Your support is transforming lives and giving children a chance at a better future. To the mothers in the USA who have supported our mission, we say thank you. Your support has made a significant impact on the lives of children in Kenya. You are helping to break the cycle of poverty and provide opportunities for a brighter tomorrow.

On this Mother’s Day, let’s take a moment to recognize the invaluable role that mothers play in the lives of their children and in our communities. To all the mothers in the NRCF program, all the mother donors, and all the NRCF and FoNR staff who are mothers, we thank you for your unwavering commitment and wish you a happy Mother’s Day.

We invite you to honor a special mother in your life by donating or sponsoring a student.