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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May 18, 2026 By Fammy Masiza Leave a Comment

Michael’s Journey: From Coding Bootcamp to Tech Innovator

The journey of digital transformation often begins with a single student identifying a gap in the system. For Michael Moses, that journey started in 2018 when he joined the Ngong Road Children’s Foundation (NRCF). Since then, the organization has been a cornerstone of his educational development, providing the support necessary to turn academic potential into real-world innovation.

Building a Strong Technical Foundation

After high school, Michael and his peers were selected for an intensive coding bootcamp facilitated by DirectEd Development. This eight-month program was a turning point, equipping him with a sophisticated suite of technical and professional skills, including:

  • Programming Languages: Mastery of Python and JavaScript.
  • Version Control: Proficiency in Git and GitHub.
  • Professional Skills: Training in project management and collaborative teamwork.

While Michael initially specialized in Generative AI and Machine Learning, his passion soon expanded into broader software development, specifically focusing on the creation of mobile and web applications.

Identifying the “WhatsApp Chaos” Problem

Now a second-year student at Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT), pursuing a degree in Mathematics and Computer Science, Michael observed a recurring frustration among his peers.

Despite being in a high-tech environment, most academic communication still relied on WhatsApp groups. This led to “information overload,” where vital lecture notes, deadlines, and official announcements were frequently buried under hundreds of casual chat messages. Michael realized this wasn’t just a student problem; it was a challenge for any corporate organization relying on disorganized chat apps for data sharing.

The Birth of Semestra

In October 2024, Michael decided to bridge this gap. After conducting market research to validate the demand for a more organized system, he began development in December. By April 2026, he successfully launched the Minimum Viable Product (MVP) of his platform: Semestra.

Semestra is designed to modernize how learning institutions share resources. It offers a centralized, organized hub where academic information is impossible to miss.

Early Success and Future Vision

The impact of the platform was immediate. Since its launch, 18 classes at JKUAT have already adopted Semestra to manage their academic workflows.

Michael’s goal is to scale this solution across more institutions, replacing chaotic messaging threads with a professional, streamlined platform. His story serves as a powerful testament to how targeted educational support and personal initiative can drive the next generation of African tech solutions.

May 13, 2026 By Fammy Masiza Leave a Comment

Purity’s Rise: From Sponsored Student to Professional Chef

The year was 2007 when Purity Mayodi’s life changed forever. Back then, things were not easy. She was a young girl with big dreams, but she didn’t have the money for school. She worried about her future every day. Then, the Ngong Road Children Foundation opened its doors to her.

Because of the foundation, the school doors stayed open. Purity didn’t have to worry about books or fees anymore. Everything she needed to learn was provided for her. Looking back, she knows that without this help, she might never have finished her education. It was the gift that changed her path.

A Heart Full of Thanks

Purity carries a special kind of love for her sponsor, Margaret Meyer. Even though she didn’t see her, she thinks of her often. Her kindness was the bridge that helped her cross over from a life of struggle to a life of hope.

“I owe you so much,” she says in her heart. “I dream of the day I can finally get in touch with you to show you what your help did for me.”

Success in the Kitchen

Today, if you walk into Gemini, one of the biggest and best hotels in Kilimani, Nairobi, you will find Purity in her element. She is no longer just a student; she is a professional chef. She works in a fast-paced, exciting kitchen, doing what she loves every single day.

The best part of her success is the peace it brings her. Because she has a good job, Purity can now take care of herself and her family. She has gone from needing help to being the person who provides help.

Why Her Story Matters

Purity’s journey shows how much a little help can do:

  • Independence: She can now pay for her own needs and support her loved ones.
  • A Real Career: She turned her education into a professional job in a top location in Nairobi.
  • Endless Gratitude: She is a proud graduate of the foundation and stays thankful for every bit of support she received.

Purity Mayodi is proof that when you educate a child, you give them a new life. She is grateful to the Ngong Road Children Foundation for believing in her when she was starting. Now, she is cooking up a bright future for everyone around her.

May 11, 2026 By Fammy Masiza Leave a Comment

Meet Our Secondary Case Managers

Our dedicated Case Managers drive our success as a locally-led organization. They provide essential, one-on-one support throughout a student’s academic life, ensuring that every child has the resources and direction necessary to reach their full potential.

Japheth–Senior Case Manager

Growing up in Kitui County, Japheth felt a clear sense of purpose take root early in his life. His journey is that of a man who views his work not just as a profession, but as a true calling. After completing his degree in Development Studies and Social Work at Mount Kenya University in 2016, Japheth began a career entirely defined by a deep-seated passion for service.

Before stepping into his current role, Japheth spent years in the heart of child development, working with respected organizations like Compassion and ChildFund. These experiences sharpened his versatile toolkit, making skills in teamwork, advocacy, and counseling second nature to him. At the center of his work is a core conviction: that education is the primary engine of empowerment. Japheth believes it is the one thing that can truly break the cycle of poverty for a sponsored child.

As a Secondary Senior Case Manager, Japheth finds his daily reward in witnessing profound transformations. There is a unique satisfaction for him in seeing a child evolve from a place of vulnerability into a confident, empowered individual with a bright future ahead. This progress is achieved through his steady problem-solving and a commitment to walking alongside every student in the program.

Outside of the professional sphere, Japheth’s life finds its rhythm on the soccer pitch. Whether he is playing the game himself or coaching a team, the sport offers a perfect balance to his busy career. For a dedicated advocate like Japheth, life is a blend of strategic teamwork on the field and a lifelong mission to ensure that every child reaches their full potential.

Lilian–Junior Case Manager

Lillian’s story is a powerful circle of growth and giving back. Having joined the program as a beneficiary in 2008, she is a living testament to its impact. The support she received over the years did more than just provide an education; it shaped her into the leader she is today, creating a deep bond between her and the community she now serves.

Her professional journey within the organization is marked by a steady rise and a willingness to serve in any capacity. In 2023, Lillian began as a dedicated volunteer in the library and also served as an office assistant, roles that helped her develop a strong sense of responsibility. Her path then led her to the Procurement Department, where she built the technical skills and confidence necessary for a transition into leadership. By 2026, she officially joined the Secondary Department, moving from a program student to a key staff member.

Today, Lillian serves as a Junior Case Manager, overseeing the progress of 51 high school students. Her work is driven by the joy of seeing her students excel academically and successfully transition to post-secondary education. Because she once walked in their shoes, she possesses a unique ability to relate to their challenges and share in their dreams.

For Lillian, this role is more than just a job; it is a meaningful mission. Her firsthand experience as a beneficiary motivates her to support her students wholeheartedly, ensuring that the same program that changed her life continues to open doors for the next generation

April 8, 2026 By Fammy Masiza 1 Comment

Meet the Mentors: Empowering Students via Case Management

Behind every successful student is a support system that believes in their potential. At the heart of our mission, our Primary Case Managers serve as the backbone of our educational programs. As a locally-led organization, we pride ourselves on providing more than just financial aid; we provide consistent, hand-in-hand guidance for elementary and middle school students.

Today, we are proud to introduce two of the incredible individuals who make this possible: Norah and Wence.

Norah: A Decade of Dedication and Transformation

Title: Senior Case Manager

Norah’s journey with us began in 2011 as an intern. Over the last decade, she has worn many hats—from librarian to secondary case manager—before taking on her current role as Senior Case Manager for our primary department.

For Norah, the work is deeply personal. She focuses on building meaningful relationships with families, especially during their most challenging moments. By understanding each household’s specific needs, she provides the hope and guidance necessary for long-term growth.

Why Norah Does What She Does:

  • Witnessing Growth: She finds immense satisfaction in seeing the “positive transformations” in her students’ lives.
  • Holistic Support: She believes that by engaging closely with families, the entire community moves forward together.
  • Passion-Driven: Norah views her work as a blessing, witnessing lives change for the better every day.

“Working with the children at this organization has been one of the greatest joys. Seeing their growth and smiles reminds me every day why all this is important.” — Norah

Wence: From Program Beneficiary to Community Leader

Title: Junior Case Manager

Wence’s story is a powerful testament to the long-term impact of our mentorship. Having joined the program as a beneficiary in 2009, Wence grew up within our community. Even during his college years, he returned to volunteer, mentoring younger students and facilitating Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRH) talks.

In 2017, driven by a desire to give back, Wence pursued a career in social work. His lived experience as a former student in the program allows him to connect with his students with a level of authenticity and empathy that is truly unique.

Wence’s Impact by the Numbers:

  • 62 Students: The number of primary students Wence manages directly.
  • 200+ Youth: The number of young people reached through his enrichment and SRH programs.
  • 9 Years: The time he spent as a student before transitioning into a professional role within the organization.

“This organization has shaped the person I am today. Beyond education, it instilled in me the belief that we all have a responsibility to lift others as we rise.” — Wence

Why Local Case Management Matters

Our case managers do more than check grades. They are mentors, advocates, and pillars of support. Whether it is Norah’s decade of experience or Wence’s firsthand understanding of the student journey, our team ensures that every child in our primary department has the tools to achieve their dreams.

March 6, 2026 By Fammy Masiza Leave a Comment

March Newsletter

2026 marks the beginning of our 20th Anniversary. We’re kicking off a year of celebrating on April 23, 2026, in collaboration with our partners at Arrow Giving Foundation.
Save the date—April 23, 2026—as we celebrate two decades of partnering with students and families in Nairobi to unlock opportunity through education. Today, our alumni are working, leading, supporting their families, and shaping their communities. 

Gather for Impact
Celebrating 20 Years of Friends of Ngong Road
April 23, 5 PM – 7 PM
Maison Margaux

Free to attend and complimentary valet.
Registration opens March 9th—more information to come.


2025: A year of growth and momentum

Thanks to you and our global community of supporters, 2025 was a year of inspiring hope and sparking brighter futures. As our 2025 Outcomes Report shows, your generosity is changing lives.

Because of you, we began 2026 by onboarding 100 new students and have already welcomed the first 50 children in January, with another 50 onboarding in April. Thanks to you and hundreds of supporters, last December, you helped make this possible by giving $293,589. Thank you.

Our team in Kenya wanted to say thank you personally. We invite you to watch this short message of gratitude from the staff and students — the very ones your support impacts.

Program Highlight

Every Saturday, students spend the day engaging in fun activities, sharing laughter, and enjoying a delicious meal. Moments like these remind us of the power of community and the impact of education and support. Each Saturday is an opportunity for our students to learn, play, and thrive. Take a moment to enjoy watching kids being kids.

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FRIENDS OF NGONG ROAD &
NGONG ROAD CHILDREN'S FOUNDATION

Founded in 2006, Friends of Ngong Road is a 501(c)(3) U.S. nonprofit equipping Nairobi’s youth with education, support, and pathways to employment—creating lasting change for children, families, and their communities.

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Friends of Ngong Road
100 1st St S #581308
Minneapolis, MN 55458


(612) 568-4211
info@ngongroad.org


EIN: 20-4690846

Ngong Road Children's Foundation
PO Box 1765-00502
Karen, Nairobi, Kenya


0792-745-612 (Mobile)
info@NRCFKenya.org


Covenant Guest House Road, gate no.9


© 2026 · Friends of Ngong Road, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit