Friends of Ngong Road

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

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Saturday Program Update

The Saturday program, a child development initiative, has been making a significant impact on the lives of our students by providing a platform for engaging and fun learning experiences. Through a range of activities facilitated by dedicated staff, students have been able to explore their interests, enhance their skills, and build lasting friendships among themselves. In the past months since the beginning of the year, we have also been privileged to have visitors, sponsors, and donors join us during the Saturday program.

One notable visit to the Saturday program was by Amy, the Chief Operating Officer of Friends of Ngong Road. During her visit to Nairobi, Kenya she visited the program and joined the students in various activities. Her presence brought a sense of excitement and encouragement to the students as she conveyed warm greetings from sponsors. Amy’s personal interaction with students fostered connection, reminding them of their sponsors’ love and support, fostering a sense of connection.

Robin, a sponsor and brother of Andy, visited the program and interacted with sponsored students, friends, and participated in fun activities. Andy, a board member and Chief Technical Officer at Friends of Ngong Road, also met with the students.

Another significant contribution to the Saturday program came in the form of donations from the Waterfront Mall in Karen, Nairobi. They donated books, clothes, and shoes for the students. Book donations increased library collection, while clothes and shoes were given to students . These donations will not only provide valuable educational resources but also help improve the students’ well-being. 

The Saturday Program fosters hope, transformation, and belonging among students, fostering growth and community, inspiring them to support each other.

Donate towards the Saturday program.

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James, the aspiring IT guru

My name is James, Growing up in loving family with parents, siblings. However, our family faced significant financial instability, which impacted my education. During my early years, I attended a school where I frequently faced the threat of being sent home due to unpaid school fees. I received the NRCF scholarship, which changed my life. This scholarship became a life-changing opportunity for me, opening doors that had previously seemed closed.

With the support of Ngong Road Children’s Foundation, I enrolled at Jagiet Academy, where I completed my primary education. This was a significant milestone for me, as it marked the completion of my foundational education and provided me with a solid educational background. After graduating from primary school, I was able to continue my education at Hospital Hill High School.

High school experiences enriched diverse interactions with people from various backgrounds. This exposure broadened my perspective and enriched my understanding of the world around me. I dedicated myself to my studies, and successfully graduated from high school. This achievement allowed me to realize a long-held dream of mine – the opportunity to pursue higher education at one of Kenya’s prestigious universities.

Currently, I am actively engaged in learning computer packages at NRCF lab. Acquiring essential computer skills, I believe will greatly benefit my life in various aspects. Additionally, I had the incredible opportunity to participate in the introductory program of the DirectEd bootcamp. This program involved an examination, and I am proud to share that I achieved a Distinction grade. As a result, I qualified to join the main bootcamp, where I received an access scholarship. This scholarship provided me with a laptop, which has been instrumental in my learning journey during the bootcamp. A wifi device provided ensured uninterrupted internet access, allowing full immersion in online resources and coursework from home, ensuring seamless learning experience.

Taking part in the DirectEd bootcamp has been an enriching experience for me. It has allowed me to delve deeper into various computer languages, including HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and Python. Improved skills will enhance my confidence and proficiency in technology careers to impact my future endeavor. I am extremely grateful for the support and opportunities provided by NRCF and DirectEd bootcamp. These experiences have been transformative, equipping me with the knowledge, resources, and skills necessary to pursue my aspirations in the field of Information Technology.

My ultimate goal is to join Kenyatta University to take a degree course in Information Technology. With a deep passion for technology, I aspire to work for leading tech companies such as Google or Microsoft as a software developer. Technology can transform culture, and I am determined to use it for positive change, especially considering the challenging circumstances of my upbringing in a financially disadvanteged family.

I am incredibly grateful for the opportunities and life-changing moments that the NRCF sponsorship has provided me. The experience has been a turning point in my life, offering transformative experiences and opening doors. I am grateful for it.

Watch James’ latest IT achievement video.

Transform a life.

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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.