Since 2002 I have tried to make a difference in the lives of girls living in the slums of Nairobi Kenya. Girls Soccer in Kibera and Kibera Girls Soccer Academy strives to stem the tide of gender inequality. Through sports and education the young women of Kibera have come a long way in being recognized as competent and goal driven members of their community.
My vision and support over the years has continued to keep the dream alice. Our sports program caters to over 100 girls while the secondary school boasts an enrollment of over 120 girls. The key to our continued growth and success is that we are tuition free and strive for "Gender Equality and Self Awareness For a Better Future".
My connection to the school and soccer program is born out of a love and respect that I hhave for my 4 daughters. Because I have always wanted nothing but fair and equal treatment for them I felt it only fair to share this dream with others in a much more challenging situation.
Since the inception of the programs we have seen young girls who started with us in 2002 return as teachers and mentors to our new arrivals.
Currently the school exists in the heart of the slum. My number one priority is to relocate the school to an area that is safe and secure. While we realize the importance of retaining a presence within the slum it has become imperative that a safe and secure learning enviornoment be provided. The additional space will also permit us to construct a clinic and a well developed vocational training program that will ensure each of our graduates a pronising future.
I am 49 years old and the father to four wonderful daughters. I am also a teacher here in Pennsylvania, United States. Education and sports have long been guiding activities in my life. My father commited 30 years of his life as a full time volunteer in the Boys Scouts of America.
This role model is truly the inspiration in wanting to serve others. Our soccer program and school have grown considerably over the past eight years and having obtained our non profit status in 2009 we have significant growth potential.
Each summer I travel to Kenya and spend a minimum of 4 weeks overseeing the needs as well as planning for the coming year.
