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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Senior Camp 2023: Nurturing Resilience and Grit

The Ngong Road Childrenā€™s Foundation organized a transformative Senior Camp from November 13th to November 17th, 2023, at the scenic Naivasha West Beach camp in Kongoni, Nakuru County. The camp aimed to celebrate the achievements of the Class of 2022 KCPE graduates as they transitioned to Form One and acknowledge the accomplishments of the Form Three students of 2023. Under the overarching theme of “Developing Resilience and Grit,” the camp set out to instill passion and perseverance in the face of challenges to empower the students for success in high school.

A total of 43 campers enthusiastically participated, joined by a dedicated team of 12 staff members. To facilitate organization, the campers were divided into four teams, each comprising 10-11 members, each team distinguished by vibrant T-shirt colors. The spirited competition throughout the camp culminated in the yellow team being crowned as the victorious champions of the 2023 camp competitions.

The camp was a holistic experience, offering a diverse range of activities to enrich the participants physically, mentally, and emotionally:

Arts and Crafts: The students engaged in creativity through arts and crafts, where they learned to fashion friendship bracelets using lettered beads and string. This activity served a dual purpose of nurturing artistic expression and imparting entrepreneurial skills by demonstrating how readily available resources could be transformed into marketable items.

GRIT Training: Teams delved into the concept of GRIT, understanding the skills necessary to cultivate perseverance, particularly in the challenging environment of high school. This training equipped students with tools to navigate obstacles, ranging from academic pressures to peer influence.

Leadership and Motivation: Students were introduced to the servant leadership model, exploring the characteristics of effective leaders. The camp emphasized that leadership is a skill that can be acquired, dispelling the notion that one must be born a leader.

Field Trip to Hells Gate and Geothermal Spa: A field trip to Hells Gate and Geothermal Spa provided a unique learning experience, allowing students to explore historic sites in the Rift Valley and witness power generation from hot springs by KenGen. This excursion broadened their understanding of the environment and sustainable energy practices.

Crazy Olympics Sports: The camp incorporated fun and laughter with Crazy Olympics sports, including balloon relays and egg spoon relays, fostering teamwork and problem-solving skills in a lighthearted atmosphere.

Nine Series Obstacle Race: The pinnacle of physical and mental challenges came in the form of a Nine Series Obstacle Race. Students engaged in a series of tasks designed to test their problem-solving skills, promoting resilience and adaptability.

The Senior Camp of 2023 was an immersive experience that not only celebrated achievements but also equipped students with essential life skills. Through a carefully curated mix of activities, the camp fostered creativity, perseverance, leadership, and teamwork, laying a solid foundation for the participants as they embarked on their high school journey.Ā 

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Small Business Training Program

Through our 2022 Alumni Survey, a significant proportion of our graduates reported an interest in gaining business skills to assist them in starting their own full-time business or a side hustle business in addition to their primary sources of income. We started a Small Business Management Training Program earlier this year to train our graduates how to plan, establish, comply with local authorities, and run a profitable business. 

The training was divided into two phases: the introductory phase and the main training phase. 

  • 34 alumni attended the introductory phase (Introduction to Small Business and Taxation)
  • 20 qualified to proceed to the second phase (Small Business Management Training)
  • 10 completed both phases and graduated with a certificate and toolkit to start or grow their existing business. 

    The 10-week training took place in the Elimu Hub on our campus. It was facilitated by Be The Leader (BTL), an employability and job preparedness training organization. They are well qualified to provide training on employability, career development, leadership, entrepreneurship, and other topics to Kenyan youths.

    The Small Business Management Training Program provided our alumni with a comprehensive understanding of business concepts, strategies, and practices. They learned about the importance of financial management, business ideas, and market research. The program also taught them how to create a comprehensive business plan, identify opportunities for innovation, and evaluate the feasibility of their business ideas. Financial management concepts were covered, including revenue, costs, profit, and cash flow. They were introduced to different funding options and legal structures for startups, such as sole proprietorship, partnership, and incorporation. Risk management was also covered, identifying potential threats and addressing them.

    The training program had a significant impact on the trainees, enhancing their knowledge and skills, fostering an entrepreneurial mindset, and enabling them to develop and refine business ideas. The program also fostered confidence and motivation in the trainees, empowering them to pursue their entrepreneurial aspirations.

    The graduation ceremony marked the end of the training program. They received a toolkit essential for their respective businesses and certificates, marking the beginning of a new chapter for their businesses.

    Our Small Business Management Training Program saw dedicated alumni graduate with essential skills and tools to kickstart their entrepreneurial journey. This not only helps them transform their lives but also empowers the next generation of entrepreneurs!

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    Godfrey, the Talented Barista and Mixologist

    My name is Godfrey, and I’m proud to be an alumnus of the Ngong Road Childrenā€™s Foundation Foundation (NRCF). My journey in education and the professional world has been an exciting and transformative one, and I owe much of it to the support and opportunities I received during my time at NRCF.

    I began my educational journey at NRCF in 2010 at Jagiet Academy, and it was here that I completed my primary education. In 2015, I embarked on a new chapter when I joined Parklands Boys High School. During my time at Parklands Boys, I wasn’t just a student; I was an active participant in various extracurricular activities. I played hockey and chess, and I also took on the role of a peer counselor, helping fellow students navigate the challenges of their academic journey and mental well-being. 

    After completing my high school education, I decided to pursue my passion for creating beverages and cocktails. I enrolled at Nairobi Bar School in 2019, where I had the opportunity to learn mixology skills. I earned a Certificate in Barista Skills, which was a three-month program, followed by a six-month Diploma in Professional Bartending and Mixology.

    In April 2022, I took my first step into the world of professional mixology and bartending by joining Savoan Harvest in Karen. Initially starting as a bartender and mixologist, I quickly demonstrated my dedication and skills, earning a promotion to the role of Bar Manager within just four months. As a Bar Manager, my responsibilities included maintaining stock levels, preparing cashier reports at the close of business, and devising innovative promotional concepts to boost bar revenue. This experience allowed me to not only showcase my mixology skills but also develop strategic thinking in the field.

    In January 2023, I moved to work as a Mixologist at INTI in Westlands, further expanding my experience and expertise in crafting unique and delightful cocktails. I worked here till August 2023. My journey as a mixologist has been a thrilling one, and I look forward to continuing to pursue my passion in this field.

    As I seek new opportunities in my career, I am currently on the lookout for a position as a mixologist or barista. I’m excited about the prospect of utilizing my knowledge and skills to create innovative and exciting beverages for customers to enjoy. Additionally, I aspire to venture into entrepreneurship in the future, where I can establish my own establishment and share my love for mixing and crafting beverages with the world.

    I am immensely grateful to NRCF for their sponsorship and support during my formative years. Their assistance played a vital role in making my dreams come true and setting me on the path to a fulfilling career in mixology. I am excited about the future, and I will always cherish the memories and experiences that have shaped me into who I am today.

    Transform a life.

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    Sexual Reproductive Health Training for Youth Peer Providers at NRCF

    In a recent training program held at NRCF, a group of enthusiastic young individuals embarked on a journey to become better-equipped Youth Peer Providers (YPPs) in the field of Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRH). This training was held from the 5th to the 7th of October with an aim to add to the existing knowledge that the Youth Peer Providers have in order for them to deliver SRH education effectively to students in the program. The training was carried out by volunteers from the Enkare Oltau Foundation.

    Day 1: Building Foundations

    The first day of training commenced with self-introductions, emphasizing the importance of making lasting impressions and effective icebreakers, crucial skills for working with teenagers and peers. The participants openly shared their expectations, with many hoping to increase their knowledge of Sexual Reproductive Health Rights (SRHR) and better manage emerging issues in the field. The day’s agenda covered fundamental topics such as sex, sexuality, sexual reproductive health, personality, identity, self-esteem, sexual orientation, and emerging trends in SRH. The day also delved into gender fluidity, a pressing concern in SRHR, emphasizing understanding and respecting different gender identities and expressions.

    Day 2: Deepening Knowledge

    Topics covered for the day included love and sex, relationships, components of SRHR, and long-term relationships.

    In a group work format, trainees were divided into four groups to discuss and present specific SRHR components, such as STIs, pregnancy, teen pregnancy, abortion, adolescent SRH, and contraception and family planning. The practical highlight of the day was a demonstration of self-testing kits, which was a new learning experience for all participants. This demonstration inspired a request for more kits and discussions on collaborating with Community Health Volunteers or the nearest County Hospital for further training and supplies.

    Day 3: Exploring Taboos

    The agenda for the day covered sensitive topics, including masturbation, SRH legal policies, SRH for marginalized communities, and mental health management for SRH facilitators.

    Masturbation became a focal point of discussion, with the trainees expressing a strong desire for more in-depth knowledge. This day marked the end of the training.

    The SRH training provided youth peer providers with valuable insights and skills to become effective facilitators in SRH education. The program empowered these young individuals with the knowledge, sensitivity, and tools they need to address SRH challenges and make a lasting impact. The dedication of both trainers and trainees to create a supportive and inclusive learning environment promises a brighter future for SRHR education and support. Our gratitude goes out to the volunteers at the Enkare Oltau Foundation for taking the time to carry out this refresher training for our Youth Peer Providers.

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    Deborah’s story: a perfect example of diversifying skills

    My name is Deborah, and I have had a journey of growth and learning that led me to where I am today. It all began back in 2008 when I joined Ngong Road Childrenā€™s Foundation as a class one student. Little did I know that the organization would become a significant part of my life, shaping my educational and professional path.

    During my primary education, I attended Jagiet Primary School from 2008 to 2015. It was a place where I not only gained knowledge but also developed a strong sense of community and compassion. The values instilled in me during those years continue to guide me today. For my secondary education, I moved on to Sacred Heart Secondary School in Mirithu, where I spent four memorable years from 2016 to 2019. 

    After completing my secondary education, I decided to take a step towards turning my passion into a profession. From September to November 2022, I enrolled in Vera Beauty College to pursue a certificate course in makeup and eyebrows. This experience allowed me to deepen my knowledge and skills in the world of cosmetics. It was a fulfilling journey where I sharpened my abilities and gained a greater appreciation for the art of makeup. I am currently awaiting graduation from this course.Ā 

    I have recently, made the exciting decision to join the NRCF Techmates team as a digital marketing intern. I had heard about the program and was immediately drawn to the prospect of gaining practical skills in the fast-paced world of digital marketing. During my three-month internship as a Techmate, I will learn about the different aspects of Digital Marketing such as social media management, search engine optimization, and content creation.

    I aspire to leverage the skills I will acquire during my internship to embark on a freelancing journey after three months. Freelancing will not only allow me to apply my digital marketing expertise but also give me the flexibility to explore and take on diverse projects while still allowing me to pursue my passion in the beauty industry.  I am entirely grateful to the NRCF program for the life-changing opportunity of being able to get quality education. I am excited about the future and the opportunities that lie ahead as I continue to develop my skills and make a meaningful contribution to the world.

    Transform a life today.