By Joanne Kellermann & Petra Zijp, Aflatoun Supervisory Board Members
When we prepared for our recent visit to Kenya, as members of the Aflatoun International Supervisory Board, we anticipated an insightful journey. Our visit had two key objectives: to support the establishment of Aflatoun’s new Global Programmes Hub in Kenya, and to witness firsthand the impact of Child Social and Financial Education (CSFE).
We expected to see the establishment of the new office (the hub that will bring Aflatoun closer to its network and ensuring more effective collaboration and deeper engagement across regions), and visit a couple of places where we could observe the CSFE in action. ‘Serious fun’– as Aflatoun is used to call it. But, what we actually experienced was so much more! A profoundly moving and firsthand look at how Aflatoun’s approach is transforming the lives of children in both non-formal and formal education settings. Over only four days, we were lucky to meet amazing people who influence lives of vulnerable children – extraordinary educators, community leaders, parents, and most importantly, children themselves. And, it is them who showed us exactly why these programmes exist and matter.
Our journey through Aflatoun impact took us from the informal learning environment of Oasis of Hope Community Ministry in Mathare North, an urban slum in Nairobi, to Tiva Primary School in rural Kitui County where Aflatoun’s partnership with ChildFund Kenya and Eastern Community Development Programme (ECDP) is making a remarkable difference.
Oasis of Hope: A Safe Haven for Vulnerable Children
In Mathare North, one of Nairobi’s most densely populated areas, we visited Oasis of Hope Community Ministry, a community-based organisation providing a lifeline for vulnerable children growing up in a challenging environment. Their life is marked by limited access to quality education, extreme poverty leading to child labor, poor health and malnutrition, high unemployment, exposure to substance abuse, and a lack of safe recreational spaces, creating immense daily struggles. Led by the inspiring pastor Joash Okelo and his dedicated team, Oasis of Hope offers children a safe space amid these hardships, where they receive meals, emotional support, and, most importantly, life skills that equip them for the future and offer hope beyond their current circumstances.
We were deeply moved by the commitment and passion of the facilitators, Judith and Jemima, who play a crucial role in guiding and mentoring the children. Their dedication to integrating Aflatoun’s Social and Financial Education into the programme ensures that children develop resilience, responsibility, and a sense of empowerment despite the many challenges they face. Pastor Joash’s leadership in building a supportive and nurturing environment was truly inspiring, demonstrating the impact that committed local leadership, church board members, and community volunteers can have in creating meaningful change for children.
Despite the hardships those children face, Oasis of Hope is instilling a sense of possibility. Their integration of Aflatoun’s Social and Financial Education approach is helping children develop resilience, responsibility, and a vision for their future.
Tiva Primary School: Learning Through Action
A two-and-a-half-hour drive from Nairobi brought us to Machakos County, where we met the dynamic ChildFund team at the Area Office. We then continued to Kitui County to visit Tiva Mixed Day and Boarding Comprehensive School.Here, Aflatoun’s partnership with ChildFund Kenya and ECDP is growing Financial Literacy, leadership, and school retention – especially for girls.
One of the highlights of our visit was seeing the school gardens, tended by the students as part of their financial and social education journey. These gardens serve as an incredible example of learning through action, teaching children both financial literacy and essential social skills such as teamwork, responsibility, and problem-solving while also providing a reliable food source that has significantly improved school attendance – especially among girls.
What struck us the most was the children’s ability to articulate not only what they were learning but why it mattered, demonstrating both financial understanding and strong social skills such as confidence, communication, and collaboration. They spoke passionately about the importance of saving, financial planning, and leadership. It was clear that this education is giving them the confidence and knowledge to shape their own futures. That is Aflatoun impact in their lives!
A Unified Commitment to a Brighter Future
Beyond the field visits, we also had the privilege of meeting with key stakeholders, including the proposed board members of the new Aflatoun Global Programmes Hub in Kenya. These conversations reaffirmed our belief in the strength of decentralised leadership and the importance of ensuring that Social and Financial Education reaches more children across Africa and beyond.
We were incredibly impressed by the depth of expertise and dedication within this emerging board. Their knowledge and commitment will be instrumental in strengthening Aflatoun’s impact. Aflatoun’s growing global presence requires strong governance structures, and we are confident that this new board will play a critical role in advancing Aflatoun’s mission worldwide.
Final Reflections: The Power of Collective Effort
Reflecting on our visit, one thing stands out: real, lasting change happens when communities come together. The dedication of the directors and managers leading these local initiatives, the tireless efforts of teachers and volunteers, the unwavering support of parents, and the enthusiasm of the children themselves create a powerful ecosystem of change.
We leave Kenya with renewed conviction – Social and Financial Education is not just an educational tool; it is a necessity. Seeing the children confidently share their experiences, aspirations and belief in the power of education, we saw the effectiveness of the Aflatoun approach.
This visit has definitely strengthen our commitment to ensuring that every child, no matter their background, needs to have the opportunity to learn, grow, and build a future they can be proud of. We are excited about what lies ahead, especially with the soon-to-be-established Aflatoun Global Programmes Hub in Kenya.
As members of Aflatoun’s Supervisory Board, our role extends far beyond Kenya. We are responsible for ensuring the impact of Aflatoun’s programmes across the Americas, Africa, the Middle East, Asia, Europe, and Central Asia. With strengthened partnerships, strong local leadership, and a growing global network, we are confident that Aflatoun’s impact will continue to expand.
