Empowering Through Connection, Mentorship and Community.

Tuendelee Foundation believes that meaningful impact goes beyond providing educational opportunities. It is also about mentorship, community, shared experiences and creating spaces where people can learn from and support one another.

On 8 August 2026, Tuendelee Foundation visited Kijijini Mission in Nakuru as part of its community social responsibility activities. The visit was organized by Tuendelee Foundation, with special credit to Maureen, a Tuendelee beneficiary, who tutors and supports activities at Kijijini Mission. 

Maureen (standing on extreme right), a Tuendelee beneficiary, has played a meaningful role in tutoring, training and mentoring students at Kijijini Mission. 

The visit formed part of a wider day of community engagement in Nakuru, as Tuendelee also participated in the Molo Run. A Tuendelee team of 17, comprising  staffcomprising staff members and scholars joined the Kijijini Mission engagement, interacting with approximately 18 beneficiaries. 

About Kijijini Mission 

Kijijini Mission supports young women from disadvantaged backgrounds and circumstances by providing opportunities to gain practical skills and pursue personal development. The beneficiaries are students, mainly in their early twenties to late thirties, undertaking courses such as tailoring, computer studies and basic financial management skills. They are accommodated within the same environment where they study, giving them convenience and stability to focus on their education. 

The work of Kijijini Mission strongly resonates with Tuendelee Foundation’s mission. Although the two organizations differ in scope, both are committed to creating opportunities, supporting people facing difficult circumstances and equipping individuals with skills that can help them progress.

Connecting Through Shared Experiences 

The visit began with introductions before the Tuendelee team and Kijijini students were divided into smaller groups for informal conversations. The discussions focused on getting to know one another and sharing experiences around life challenges, personal growth, mentorship and lessons learned along the way. 

One of the most meaningful moments came when the Kijijini students spoke about their experiences with Maureen. The students warmly praised her for the role she has played in their lives, highlighting how she has supported them through advice, training, mentorship and practical guidance. They also appreciated the practical financial literacy Maureen’s gives to be able to assess if their tailoring business is profitable. Their appreciation demonstrated the tangible impact that one person’s time, knowledge and willingness to support others can have. 

Tuendelee staff and scholars engage with Kijijini Mission students during the group interaction session. 

For Tuendelee, hearing the students speak so positively about Maureen was a powerful reminder that the impact of a beneficiary does not end with receiving an opportunity. It can extend further when that beneficiary uses their knowledge and experience to help others. 

Celebration O’clock 🎉 

As the day came to a close, the team discovered another reason to celebrate. Diana, one of Tuendelee Foundation’s beneficiaries, was celebrating her birthday. The team decided to make the occasion part of the day’s activities, creating a joyful conclusion to the visit. The gathering came alive with singing and dancing as everyone joined in celebrating Diana.

A joyful birthday celebration for Diana brought singing, dancing and laughter to the end of the visit. 

Lessons and the Way Forward

The Kijijini Mission visit demonstrated that community engagement is not only about giving resources. It is also about showing up, listening, sharing experiences and building meaningful relationships. The students’ stories showed how much education, training and mentorship can mean to individuals working to improve their lives. 

Tuendelee Foundation and Kijijini Mission share a common belief in the power of opportunity and empowerment.  

Conclusion 

The Kijijini Mission visit was a day of connection, learning, mentorship and celebration. From the group conversations and personal stories to the students’ heartfelt appreciation of Maureen and the joyful celebration of Diana’s birthday, the day created lasting memories for everyone involved. 

For Tuendelee Foundation, the visit was a reminder that progress is strengthened when people support one another and share what they have learned. As Tuendelee continues to build partnerships and engage with communities, it remains committed to creating opportunities that enable individuals to Tuendelee — to progress. 

Prepared by Dennis Lesso Lowaso, Tuendelee Foundation.