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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Another Successful Round of Coding Classes

Last year we partnered with the DirectEd Development Foundation to introduce an intensive coding boot camp aimed at recent high school graduates. This three-part program provides a pathway for students to learn the basics of coding and programming. From last year’s cohort of 14, two students successfully advanced to sit for the main DirectEd exam, subsequently securing internships.

One such success story is that of a junior developer, James, who is actively using his learned skills. James was one of the two students who sat for the main DirectEd exam, where he did well. In September 2023, he joined Lido Nation as a Software Developer Intern, where he worked on coding until February 2024 while also freelancing at Hostraha, a web-hosting company in Nairobi. He is currently a student at Egerton University, where he is working on something really interesting. Together with his friend, they are working on a startup company! The company will offer a cooperative approach where individuals and groups can own properties seamlessly. They started the coding work almost a month ago and they hope to successfully pull off this entrepreneurial venture.  

DirectEd Coding Boot Camp Success Stories

Recently, a new crop of our high school graduates took the same coding course. DirectEd conducted the Introductory Course, a week-long coding training program. Introducing participants to the fundamentals of programming using Python, this course attracted 18 students eager to embark on their coding journey. Using digital platforms such as Zoom, Google Classroom, Piazza, and Notion, students engaged in immersive learning experiences, accessing a diverse range of resources including PDF modules, instructional videos, and feedback forms. Daily check-ins and workshops facilitated active participation and knowledge retention, ensuring a dynamic learning environment.

The end of the Introductory Course was marked by a rigorous examination taken by 14 dedicated students on January 13th, 2024. All 14 students successfully transitioned to the next phase of the DirectEd boot camp. DirectEd held a virtual closing ceremony that served as a testament to their dedication and achievements. 

By creating relationships with outside institutions to provide quality training programs, we are paving the way for a brighter future for our students. 

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A Champion for Persons With Disability

My name is Bradley, I am 20 years old and I joined the program in 2010. I went to Jagiet Academy from grade one to grade eight and then I joined Rev. Muhoro Secondary School For the Deaf. Currently, I am taking a Diploma course in Information Technology at Zetech University. I do that because I have always loved interacting with computers and dealing with things related to technology. I will be graduating in November 2024 and after that, I hope to get a job that will enhance my skills and knowledge in the IT field. I am planning to advance my career to the degree level to tap into other areas of IT.

Outside of my studies, I am actively involved in volunteering with the organization, Kenya Sign Language (KSL). I began collaborating with them in 2018 when I joined Rev. Muhoro School for the Deaf, as I am partially deaf. In my role as an IT student, I assist in various capacities, such as developing educational resources, creating accessible content, and offering technical support for digital platforms aimed at promoting sign language literacy and accessibility. 

I strive to break down communication barriers for the deaf and hard-of-hearing community. By supporting the dissemination of sign language resources and fostering greater understanding and appreciation for KSL, I envision a more inclusive society where everyone has equal access to information and opportunities. I also serve as an IT manager in the deaf department at my church, All Saints Cathedral, where I ensure the AV systems are well set up, the website is operational, and the data is protected. I also love to drive, code, and dance!  

I am truly grateful to the Ngong Road Children’s Foundation for the educational support they offer me. I aspire to create more impact in my community and give back to the program in the future.

Transform a life today!

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Nancy, the aspiring nutritionist

My name is Nancy and I am 18 years old. My hobbies are playing hockey and reading novels. I am currently reading a novel called’’ Making Life Easy’’ by Dr. Christiane Northrup. I love this book because, in a fast-paced world, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the demands of daily life. However, with a few simple strategies from this book, we can simplify our routines, reduce stress, and create a more fulfilling and enjoyable existence. This book provides practical and actionable tips for making life easier. I also look up to the author of this book as she is one of my role models.

I come from a family of seven. I love white meat, specifically chicken and Rabbit. Last year, I sat for my end-of-secondary school national exams and am excited to join higher learning this year. I am currently spending time at the Elimu Hub, a resource center based at the Ngong Road Children’s Foundation where I am undertaking my life skill sessions. I am learning different skills, including CV writing and job searching trends at the moment. 

In the future, I would like to pursue a course in nutrition and dietetics because of the love I have for ensuring every child can get a balanced diet. I would like to meet my role model, Dr. Christiane Northrup, to get more inspiration and I would also like to be a writer just like her. 

Transform a life today.  

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Dreams In The Sky

My name is Dornel and I am 14 years old. I live with my mom and I have two hobbies: art and playing football. I was inspired to pursue these hobbies by some of my relatives. When I create art, I feel a sense of freedom and joy. It allows me to express myself in ways that words cannot capture.

In 2018, I joined the Ngong Road Children’s Foundation program which opened doors to endless possibilities in my life. After enrolling in Nelson Mandela Primary School, I was able to sit for my Kenya Certificate of Primary Examinations (KCPE) last year. Currently, I am waiting to join a good high school that aligns with my goals and ambitions, a school that sees the fire in my eyes and the dreams in my heart.

After high school, I would like to pursue a career in aeronautical engineering because of my love for airplanes. I have always been eager to learn how they operate and my ultimate dream is to build planes. I want to use my love for planes to make a difference and help people in the near future. I am grateful to the program for their support and to my sponsor for making it possible for me to get quality education that I know will open doors of opportunities for me. 

Transform a life today.

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Edmond’s Creative Venture

Meet Edmond, a student at Africa Nazarene University studying Mass Communication and who is about to graduate. He is the force behind Best Ed Creative Hub, a project that combines his creativity and business skills. Even though he is busy with his studies, Edmond is a modern creative thinker. He is good at understanding how communication works and is passionate about coming up with new ideas. He manages his academic and business responsibilities with skill and purpose.

Outside of classes and books, Edmond gets inspired by reading interesting novels and watching movies. He loves rap music for its clever lyrics and raw expression, and this inspiration shows in the lively and energetic work he does at Best Ed Creative Hub. Edmond also loves to explore new places. He enjoys traveling to different cultures and landscapes, and these adventures fuel his imagination, influencing the projects he works on at Best Ed Creative Hub.

Best Ed Creative Hub is Edmond’s passion project. What started as an idea in college has become a thriving space for creative people. Edmond leads the hub, creating an environment where imagination can grow, and different ideas come together. He is not only focused on his success; he is dedicated to helping other talented people too. He offers mentorship programs and resources to guide and inspire new visionaries. Best Ed Creative Hub is not just a business; it’s a symbol of Edmond’s commitment to building a community of creative minds.

As he gets ready to graduate, Edmond’s journey as an entrepreneur is just beginning. His goal for Best Ed Creative Hub goes beyond borders, aiming to make a lasting impact on the creative world. Edmond is the perfect example of someone who brings together education, creativity, and business. With a heart full of passion and a mind full of ideas, he’s ready to change how we see creative businesses.

Transform a life.