The Giving Exchange's Trip to Kenya 2023: Two Weeks of Impact and Inspiration
In August 2023, The Giving Exchange traveled to Kenya for our annual trip with two teams of dedicated ambassadors armed with curiosity, enthusiasm, and a bunch of soccer balls.
Week 1: August 12 – 19
Week 2: August 20 – 27
We have (3) main goals for every Trip to Kenya:
1) raise awareness by exposing TGE Ambassadors to our projects
2) build trusting relationships with our beneficiaries
3) oversee the progress and impact of the sustainable programs we are implementing in-country
Of this year’s 17 ambassadors, 11 had never been to Kenya before. It was a chance for newcomers to be part of something truly meaningful, and for returning ambassadors, an opportunity to deepen their connection to the beautiful communities we serve.
Join us as we take you through these two incredible weeks, filled with projects, partnerships, and lasting impact. Here's a glimpse into what the weeks looked like.
Week 1: Connecting with Communities
Day 1: ARRIVALS
Our journey to Kenya kicked off with a sense of excitement and anticipation. Arriving in Nairobi, we were warmly greeted by the vibrant energy of the city and the promise of the adventures that lay ahead. Little did we know just how transformative this trip would be. The week 1 team had already traveled together on a Kenyan safari, so they arrived bonded and well-adjusted to the time zone – two huge bonuses! We got to use the afternoon to get acclimated to our accommodation, hang out with the children, and have a BBQ feast!
Day 2: NJOO DADA
Our second day began with a hearty breakfast prepared by Chef Peninah. We attended a church service with local children, a truly uplifting and enriching experience. Following the service, we headed to Njoo Dada, a haven for young mothers. Here, we met Lunar, the director, and the incredible young women who call this place home. After a delicious lunch and an informative session, we had the chance to support their business by purchasing beautiful purses and bags, a tangible way to contribute to their empowerment. The afternoon was spent playing with the children, creating lasting memories.
Day 3 & 4: BARAKA WOMEN'S CENTER II - RUMURUTI
Days 3 and 4 took us on a 4.5-hour journey north to Rumuruti, where we visited Baraka Women's Center II. Along the way, we marveled at the picturesque countryside, passing through villages and tea fields. At the training center, we met students who shared their experiences and appreciation for the vocational programs offered. Our visit extended to a community of Maasai, Samburu, and Kalenjin tribes, where we were welcomed with dance and speeches. Lunch in a local manyatta provided a taste of traditional cuisine. We left with hearts full of gratitude and a deeper understanding of the impact of our work.
Day 5: FANTASY SOCCER
Our fifth day led us to Kitengela, where we learned about the incredible Fantasy Soccer Academy. We discovered how our support has quadrupled its operational size since our last visit in 2019. Our funding had contributed to a screen-printing machine and an embroidery machine, valuable additions to the academy. We witnessed young talents on the soccer field, engaged with coaches and players, and even joined in on the fun. A fulfilling day indeed.
Day 6: FUN-DAY FREE-DAY
A special day for the children of Morning Star, and TGE Ambassadors alike. We used our free day in the schedule to embark on a field trip to Maji Magic Waterpark, where laughter and splashes filled the air. Bumper boats, amusement rides, and water inflatables provided hours of joy. It was so special to see many children conquer their fears of being in the water in just one afternoon. The day ended with KFC and ice cream, leaving both children and adults with cherished memories.
Week 1 was very special for all involved – watch this video for a testimonial from outstanding TGE Ambassadors Lori and Scott Smith, who get a little choked up reflecting on their week in Kenya - and encourage YOU to get involved!
Week 2: Empowering through Education and Engagement
Day 1: ARRIVALS
Our second week began with our arrival at Morning Star, our home for the next week. Warmly welcomed by hosts Reah and Frances Nderitu, we settled into the house that would be our sanctuary. A tour of the property revealed greenhouses teeming with vegetables, demonstrating Morningstar's self-sufficiency. Meeting the children, our young hosts, was a heartwarming experience, marked by introductions, activities, and shared laughter. A bonfire, barbecue, and s'mores rounded off a satisfying day.
Day 2: MUSIC PROGRAM & NJOO DADA
Our second week started with delivering food and school supplies to beneficiary schools. Musical performances by students highlighted the impact of our support, evoking smiles and applause. A visit to Njoo Dada, a safehouse for vulnerable teen mothers, shed light on their journey towards empowerment. For fun, our team hiked through Karura Park, enjoying a picnic amidst nature's beauty. A visit from Jane the Welder and hearing her inspiring story first-person capped the day.
Day 3: BARAKA WOMEN’S CENTER I
Day 3 began with a meeting with the team from Baraka Women's Center I. We visited their retail shop, where beautifully crafted products showcased the skills acquired through their training programs. Our interactions were not only insightful but also included some delightful shopping. Later, a meeting with the Kenya Small Business Development Center explored potential partnerships for business training, emphasizing our commitment to holistic development.
Day 4: DIVINE MERCY DAIRY PRODUCTION & ST ANN’S GREENHOUSE
Sister Esther's new milking machine, a gift from TGE, symbolized the journey of growth and sustainability in Morningstar. A greenhouse filled with peppers emphasized the role of agriculture in education. Movie night with the children was the perfect ending to another fulfilling day.
Day 5: CLEAN WATER FOR JUNIOR’S VILLAGE
Elephants, Zebras, Gazelle, Hippos, Wildebeest, Giraffes, Monkeys, Flamingos, Ostrich, lots of birds and Kilimanjaro-Oh My!! Not to mention, the most important part of the day: checking in on our water project for a Maasai village just outside Amboseli Park with singing, dancing and jumping. A very colorful and wondrous day for the nine of us on the road.
Two ambassadors stayed back and kept very busy helping around the home: car fixed, back-to-school bags packed, kitchen cleaned and fence dog-proofed!
Day 6: SONS OF MANASSEH
Our final day involved visits to projects emphasizing the importance of education. Sons of Manasseh introduced us to their chicken coops, illustrating the role of practical skills in creating long-term success. Our time with the children was marked by shared experiences, songs, and games.
Watch this video to hear TGE Project Volunteer, Margie, give an update on the Sons of Manasseh Children's Home and their 2023 project enhancement: a switch from layer chicken coop to broiler chicken coop!
CONCLUSION:
As our impactful two weeks in Kenya came to an end, we found our hearts filled with gratitude and our minds illuminated by profound insights. Celebrating our 10-year anniversary at The Giving Exchange this year made our return to Kenya all the more special. We reconnected with partners and friends, both new and old, including some who have been with us since our very first day of operation.
Here are the key takeaways from our 2023 Trip to Kenya:
Strong Partnerships: Over a decade of dedicated work in Kenya, The Giving Exchange has cultivated exceptional partnerships. Reconnecting with old friends reaffirmed the power of enduring connections and collaborative progress.
Leadership Matters: Effective leadership emerged as a critical factor in project success. Strong leaders with clear visions and deep community ties are the driving force behind tangible change.
Oversight and Collaboration: Our continuous presence and collaboration with in-country staff not only motivates our partners but also ensures projects stay on track to achieve their goals.
Business Training: Entrepreneurship is a catalyst for change, but it requires more than technical skills. Business training in areas such as accounting, marketing, and sales is vital for long-term profitability and sustainability.
Amazing Supporters: We are immensely grateful for the unwavering support of our incredible ambassadors. Their flexibility, engagement, and enthusiasm have enriched our journey. To those following along at home, thank you for being part of this incredible adventure with The Giving Exchange.
These key takeaways reinforce our commitment to creating positive change and sustaining our impactful work in Kenya and beyond.
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