Enhancing Inclusive Education in Kalobeyei Settlement

**Valentine Moige, a special needs teacher at Joy Primary School, teaches Steven Both how to use Braille machine.** *PHOTO: SOUNDS FOR LIFE*

In the Kalobeyei Refugee Settlement, children with disabilities have historically faced significant challenges in accessing quality education. Limited resources, a lack of specialised training for educators, and insufficient awareness about the needs of these children have contributed to low enrolment and high dropout rates among learners with special needs. Recognizing this critical issue, FCA Kenya, through the support of BPRM under the RISE III Project, launched an initiative to enhance access to inclusive, quality primary education for both refugee and host community children.

Valentine Moige, a special needs teacher at Joy Primary School, shares her experience: “I’m a teacher in inclusive education. Here, we meet different types of disabilities, and as a teacher, it is my responsibility to handle them all.” Valentine works tirelessly to ensure that all children, regardless of their disabilities, receive quality education.

Joy Primary School is an integrated, inclusive school where children with disabilities learn alongside their peers. Valentine, who serves as the focal teacher for the junior school, ensures that every learner receives the attention and support they need.

Steven Both, a 13-year-old student at Joy Primary School, is one of the many children benefiting from the inclusive education program. “I study here at Joy Primary School. I’m in grade 4B. Madam Valentine teaches me how to use Braille,” he shares.

Valentine explains the process of teaching Braille: “When you’re the teacher for special needs, we have what we call the individualised educational program (IEP). Each learner has their own way of learning.” For instance, Steven started with learning the alphabet in Braille. Over time, he has become proficient in using Braille to read and write, demonstrating the effectiveness of personalised teaching methods.

Speaking to FCA Kenya’s Education Officer Catherine Angwenyi, she noted that through targeted interventions and community awareness campaigns, the project has made remarkable progress. Kalobeyei Settlement and host schools have seen the enrolment of children with special and specific needs rise from 129 in 2020 to approximately 800 learners in 2024.

She added, “We have managed to support children with disabilities. Currently, we have over 800 children with disabilities accessing our schools. We have experts who have assessed the learners and recommended relevant assistive devices. This assistance helps retain learners and ensures they benefit from the educational activities and teachings provided in our schools.”

With support from the Bureau of Population, Refugees, and Migration (BPRM), FCA Kenya will continue to promote inclusive education in Kalobeyei and support teachers like Valentine Moige. The future looks bright for children with special and specific needs in the region.

Watch the video here to learn more : Learning Beyond Limits:Steven’s Braille Lessons with Teacher Valentine

Text: Daisy Obare/FCA

Makueni Governor Mutula Kilonzo Addresses FCA Kenya Creative Industries Students at Makueni Tech & Innovation Hub

Makueni governor Mutula Kilonzo Jr. interacting with FCA’s Creative Industries students at Makueni Tech & Innovation Hub in Wote.

Makueni governor Mutula Kilonzo Jr. recently engaged with students from FCA Kenya’s Creative Industries program at the Makueni Tech & Innovation Hub in Wote, emphasizing the crucial role of digital platforms in fostering entrepreneurship and providing sustainable career paths for young people.

During the interactive session, Governor Kilonzo highlighted the transformative potential of digital platforms in driving innovation and economic prosperity. “Opening up every avenue, particularly the Internet, is crucial for empowering our youth to showcase their talents and build viable careers,” he emphasised

Alice Wambui, Head of the Innovation Hub, commended the governor’s initiative and urged young participants to seize opportunities provided by the facility. “Youth are well aware of the challenges we face. I encourage them to create their own platforms and become solution-builders for accessing online work opportunities and securing employment,” she said.

Peter Njuguna, FCA Kenya’s project assistant, echoed the importance of initiatives like these in fostering skills development and preparing students for digital job markets. “The aim of our visit to the Makueni Tech & Innovation Hub was to provide practical exposure and networking opportunities, inspiring collaboration among FCA CI students for future employment prospects,” he stated.

Reflecting on the visit, Harry Owino, an FCA CI Web developer student, said, “Interacting with cutting-edge technology like 3D printers has significantly expanded my understanding of innovation.”

Watch the video here: Ou r Visit to Makueni Tech Hub

Text: Daisy Obare

FCA Kenya and Macefoods Sign MoU to Boost Agribusiness in Rural Kenya

FCA Kenya Country Director John Bongei with CEO and founder of Macefoods, Mrs. Margaret Komen signing the MoU at the FCA office in Nairobi.

FCA Kenya and Macefoods, a leading agribusiness company working with farmers in rural Kenya, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to establish the basis for mutual collaboration and enhance agribusiness in rural Kenya, focusing on economic and sustainable development. The signing ceremony took place on Monday, July 8th, at the FCA office in Nairobi.

Established in 2020, Macefoods is a unique private sector entity focusing mainly on the food business, particularly the pepper value chain for both domestic and export markets. The mutual agreement will allow Macefood to support over 300 women and youth with training in chili farming and other agricultural practices. This training will help ensure the quality of their produce, enabling access to global markets.

Macefoods supports the entire value chain, from production with certified seeds to training farmers and buying back the harvest for value addition and selling both domestically and internationally. Currently, they are importing raw materials like pepper from Tanzania and Malawi, highlighting the need for increased local production.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, CEO and founder of Macefoods, Mrs. Margaret Komen, said, “At Macefoods, our mission is to provide holistic support to achieve fair and rewarding relationships. Partnerships like this MoU with FCA Kenya are essential to enriching our economic environment and fostering collaboration. We have a great opportunity because we are currently importing raw materials from neighboring countries. Production in Kenya still does not meet demand, creating a ready market. We aim for 40% of our market to be in Kenya and 60% for export, showing huge potential for growth and expansion.”

She added, “Pepper farming is not labor-intensive except during harvesting; we will engage communities and young people in Kerio Valley, providing a steady income and improving livelihoods.

FCA Kenya Country Director John Bongei said this partnership presents a unique opportunity for farmers in Kerio Valley, Elgeyo Marakwet, Baringo, and West Pokot to receive training, grow crops, and access a ready market, providing them a steady income and improving livelihoods.

Mr. Bongei added that this initiative is crucial for sustaining peacebuilding efforts in Kerio Valley by providing alternative livelihoods for women and youth. FCA Kenya’s holistic program aims to empower households, improve educational and nutritional outcomes, and create economic opportunities through private sector partnerships.

“We are on the right track by bringing in private sector partnerships to enhance economic empowerment for our vulnerable communities. This partnership will create a complete reward for farming as soon as the market is ready. It aligns with our livelihood component, aiming to grow enterprises and create more opportunities for farmers.”

FCA Kenya has a longstanding commitment to implementing strategic initiatives that enhance economic independence for women and youth in the Kerio Valley. These initiatives contribute to regional stability and conflict prevention. FCA has supported over 1,000 women in Kerio Valley with entrepreneurial start-up kits, including dairy goats, cows, beehives, chickens, seeds for crop farming, and tree seedlings.

Text: Daisy Obare

Breaking the Taboo Around Menstruation

Distributing menstrual hygiene kits to FCA schools in Turkana County. Photo credit: Winnie Onyango

Just last Tuesday, I was sitting in math class, feeling on top of the world. I’d aced my last quiz, and even the teacher had given me a nod of approval. But then, out of nowhere, came a sudden wave of discomfort. A sharp cramp twisted in my stomach, and I knew what was coming.

I tried to focus on the lesson, but it felt like my mind was somewhere else entirely. And then it happened—that dreaded moment every girl fears in school. I felt a warmth spreading, and before I knew it, there it was: a bright red stain, unmistakable against the fabric of my skirt.

At first, I was mortified. I wanted to sink into my chair and disappear. But as I sat there, feeling the eyes of my classmates on me, a fire ignited within. Why should I be ashamed of something so natural? Why should I hide away, like it’s something to be embarrassed about?

With a deep breath, I gathered my courage and stood up. I could feel the heat of embarrassment creeping up my neck, but I refused to let it consume me. “Yes, I have my period,” I declared, loud enough for everyone to hear. “And no, I’m not going to hide or feel ashamed about it.”

There was a moment of silence, broken only by the hum of the air conditioning. And then something incredible happened. Instead of snickers or whispers, I saw nods of understanding and even a few smiles of solidarity. It was as if my bravery had given them permission to break free from their own fears and insecurities and break the stigma surrounding menstruation.

As the world marked World Menstrual Hygiene Day yesterday, it shed light on an issue affecting millions of girls globally: menstrual health. Despite progress, the stigma surrounding menstruation still impedes girls’ education and well-being. It’s crucial to dismantle this taboo and establish an environment where girls can study comfortably, regardless of their menstrual cycles.

According to UNICEF, nearly half of Kenyan girls lack access to menstrual hygiene products. This deficit triggers a domino effect that can derail a girl’s education and future. Girls miss school, lag behind in their studies, and consequently face shrinking opportunities, plummeting confidence, and potential mental health issues.

FCA’s Efforts to Support Menstrual Health

***A girl demonstrating how to use a sanitary pad to her peers in one of FCA schools***

FCA, with funding from UNICEF, has been actively distributing menstrual hygiene kits to girls in five counties: Garissa, Marsabit, Turkana, Samburu, and West Pokot. By providing these kits, FCA ensures that no girl has to miss school because of her period. This initiative is part of a broader effort to promote gender equality and quality education, aligning with Sustainable Development Goals 4 and 5.

To further support menstrual health and hygiene, FCA Kenya Monitoring and Evaluation Officer Duncan Kimuli stated that under the OOSC Project, which ended on December 31, 2023, a total of 10,228 children (4,397 boys and 5,831 girls), representing 170%, were reached through hygiene promotion, including Menstrual Hygiene Management (MHM) in schools. Additionally, 9,806 girls, representing 123%, were reached with Menstrual Hygiene Management packages, including sanitary kits.

Under the ECW Project, which will end on October 30, 2024, 2,816 adolescent girls affected by conflict and/or crisis, representing 88% of the overall target of 3,200, received menstrual care kits and female hygiene kits in the four counties.

FCA has promoted gender-sensitive latrines for both boys and girls, including facilities for children with disabilities. They have supported the construction and rehabilitation of 35 sanitation facilities in schools, ensuring they meet national standards. Additionally, FCA has distributed portable handwashing facilities to schools without water connections and installed handwashing basins/tanks in schools with water connections. They continue to support hygiene promotion and Menstrual Hygiene Management (MHM) education in schools.

Need for Community and Government Engagement

To comprehensively address menstrual health, we must dismantle the stigma through education and open dialogue. Schools play a crucial role in implementing menstrual hygiene management programs. Governments must prioritize menstrual health by providing resources for menstrual hygiene products, clean sanitation facilities, and integrating menstrual health education into school curricula. Community engagement and awareness campaigns are essential to challenging cultural norms and dispelling myths about menstruation.

Text: Daisy Obare

Impact of Floods on FCA Activities

Kenyan government postpone school reopening as the number of flood-related deaths hits rises

Nairobi-Kenya, 30 April 2024

FCA Kenya is on high alert and closely monitoring the flood crisis in Kenya, evaluating its internal capacity to respond and mitigate the effects of the ongoing disaster. The organization has alerted its in-country donors, including PRM, UNICEF, and UNHCR, about the potential emergency situation.

“The magnitude of this crisis is significant,” says John Bongei, FCA Kenya Country Director. “In 2019, FCA’s emergency response project assisted 2,302 learners and teachers affected by landslides in 5 West Pokot County schools. Heavy rains in late 2019 triggered floods and landslides in the region, exacerbating the situation due to inadequate emergency plans at national and county levels. Over 3,533 households were affected, with bridges washed away, amplifying the need for humanitarian aid.”

“Following the Ministry of Education’s decision to postpone the reopening of schools by one week, our schools in Dadaab and Kakuma will remain closed until May 6, 2024. This measure will help mitigate the risks to children traveling through flooded areas to reach schools in rural Kenya,” adds Bongei.

While FCA’s schools in Kalobeyei have not experienced significant issues, a section of the Future Primary School’s fence was damaged by the strong currents of water. FCA’s engineering team and contractors are unable to access project areas due to the flooding.

Nationally, over 100 people have reportedly lost their lives due to the flooding, with several others still missing. The floods have also caused extensive damage to schools in Nairobi and parts of northern Kenya.

“We urge caution and vigilance among our team members and the public,” emphasizes Bongei. “It is better to postpone events and avoid risks associated with the floodwaters.”

FCA will continue to monitor the situation closely and provide updates as necessary.

For media inquiries, please contact Daisy Obare at daisy.obare@kua.fi or +254743206995.

End of Press Release

Bishop Kaisamari Hintikka’s visit unveils FCA’s impactful initiatives

Our director, Tomi Järvinen, Vice-Chair Bishop Kaisamari Hintikka, and a delegation of Finn Church Aid supporters are welcomed by women groups in Kerio Valley undertaking peace and livelihoods interventions supported by FCA — Our director, Tomi Järvinen, Vice-Chair Bishop Kaisamari Hintikka, FCA Kenya Country Director John Bongei and a delegation of Finn Church Aid staff and supporters are welcomed by women groups in Kerio Valley undertaking peace and livelihoods interventions supported by FCA. **PHOTO: Daisy Obare**

In a recent week-long journey marked by purposeful engagements and a shared vision, Bishop Kaisamari Hintikka of Finland, alongside FCA Executive Director Tomi Järvinen and a distinguished delegation, explored various regions of Kenya.

The visit aimed to gain insights into FCA’s programmatic work, showcase the power of collaboration and shared purpose, and leave an indelible mark on the communities visited.

The week began with a symbolic Sunday service at the Kenya Evangelical Lutheran Church in Oliorum, Kajiado County. FCA’s global leadership, including Tomi Järvinen and Bishop Kaisamari, participated in this spiritual event, setting the tone for the week.

Exploring Kakuma: unveiling humanitarian initiatives

The delegation engaged in courtesy calls with the Department of Refugee Services (DRS), gaining a comprehensive overview of Kakuma’s current humanitarian landscape. Visits to FCA-managed primary and secondary schools in Village 3 showcased the impact of FCA’s educational initiatives. Immersed in vibrant programs, the delegation connected with teachers, parents, and learners. The day extended to a host community school supported by FCA, fostering connections with the local community and aligning efforts with national strategies through a courtesy call to the Deputy County Commissioner.

Insights into UNHCR and local initiatives

Pictures from a field visit to Kenya by major supporters of FCA, Executive Director Tomi Järvinen and Vice Chair of the Board, Bishop Kaisamari Hintikka Pictured: Järvinen and Hintikka meeting with Edwin Chabari, Camp Manager, for Kakuma-Kalobeyei, in his office.

A significant meeting with UNHCR provided valuable insights into the situational report for Kakuma/Kalobeyei refugee operations. A visit to the LEAP-supported school Towokayeni brought forth human stories behind FCA’s impactful interventions, emphasising the community-centric approach.

Strategic peace meeting with local youth and women talking circle in Elgeyo Marakwet

The visit witnessed a shift towards peace-building initiatives in Elgeyo Marakwet, engaging with local peace groups such as Cheluche and Amani Mbele Women Talking Circles. The day illuminated the transformative power of community-led initiatives.

The delegation’s presence also featured a meeting with HE Rachel Ruto and the Governor of the County Government of Elgeyo Marakwet Wisley Rotich, aligning efforts with strategic leaders in the Kenyan landscape. Simultaneously, the team engaged with the Tot FC Youth Group, delving into sports for peace and livelihood activities for youth.

Sustainable practices and creative ventures

The group later visited the FCA Creative Industries program centre, witnessing firsthand how FCA is mentoring youth in digital skills for a sustainable future.

FCA’s Commitment to local initiatives

Finn Church Aid Executive Directors and other delegates from Finland paid a visit to TakaTaka Solutions’ recycling plant in Limuru. The visit showcased the entire waste management process, highlighting FCA’s commitment to supporting waste pickers with livelihood, protective gear, insurance, and more.

Quotes of the day

“Our visit to Kenya has been a journey of enlightenment, revealing the resilience and strength within communities. It’s a testament to the transformative power of collaborative efforts and a shared commitment to building a better future.” – Bishop Kaisamari Hintikka

At FCA, we believe in the potential for positive change when hearts and minds come together. The experiences shared during our visit to Kenya reaffirm the importance of our mission, emphasizing the impact that collective action can have on creating sustainable and meaningful transformations.” – Tomi Järvinen, FCA Executive Director

“Working with women and youth groups has allowed us to witness firsthand the impact of our collective efforts. The dedication and spirit of the communities we’ve engaged with highlight the potential for lasting change. It’s a reminder that every action, no matter how small, contributes to building resilient and empowered societies.” – John Bongei, FCA Kenya Country Director

Text: Daisy Obare

Janet’s Journey: From Computer Novice to Empowered Digital Entrepreneur with FCA

Janet Kambua James, a mom of two, started a new chapter when she joined FCA. Before this, using a laptop and digital marketing were unfamiliar to her. It all changed when a friend told her about FCA’s digital marketing mentorship.

Excited to learn, Janet applied and got accepted in 2023. But learning to use a laptop wasn’t easy. On the first day, one of the teachers?, Madam Freddy, noticed she needed help. Janet asked her classmates during free time to teach her.

The three-month training covered logo design, finding clients, and starting a business. Janet remembers being told to go out, find clients, and offer her digital marketing skills.

Success came when she got her first job, designing a logo for Huru Contractors, and earned Ksh 3000. Another job with an automotive company followed, bringing in Ksh 2500. These early wins fueled Janet’s motivation.

Since joining FCA, Janet has been transformed personally and professionally. She gained confidence, education, and financial independence. Now, she mentors other women to be self-sufficient.

Grateful for the opportunity, Janet says, “I came here not knowing how to use a computer, but now I’m a pro. My plan is to own a big business and help others with digital skills.”

Digital marketing became Janet’s passion. “Nowadays, everything is digital,” she says. Janet supports her church by designing posters and promoting her salon online to get more clients.

Her advice to young women is clear: “enrol in free short courses to learn skills for a better future. During the three-month course, we studied content marketing, social media, and communication, helping me in my business.”

Thankful for FCA, Janet concludes, “I earn my own money and support my family comfortably. It’s our time to shine.” Janet’s story shows how FCA’s programs empower people to shine in the digital world.

Text: Daisy Obare

At the age of 13, Ken Amimo was compelled to attend school for the first time in 2019. It was a significant moment in his life. Placed in class 5, his age didn’t align with his academic knowledge, lacking basic literacy skills. Despite this challenge, he persevered for a year before circumstances led him to drop out, returning to the familiar yet harsh environment of the streets.

Transformation through FCA Kenya’s “Back to School” project

In September 2022, Lokuto Primary School underwent a transformative change with the introduction of the FCA Kenya’s “Back to School” project, funded by UNICEF Kenya. Despite being in a densely populated urban center, the school had remarkably low enrollment, totaling only 138 learners from grades 1 to 8 at that time. To address this challenge, the school Enrolment Drive Committee (EDC) was established, focusing on back-to-school campaigns at the community level. Through the persuasive efforts of the EDC, Deputy Head Teacher Mr. Alfred Kioko, and the school’s teachers; Ken was convinced to leave his street life and rejoin the educational system at Lokuto Primary School.

Despite his age and the time spent out of school, Ken’s determination, coupled with support from teachers and fellow students, helped him reintegrate successfully. Ken lacked a uniform and learning materials upon his return, but fellow learners donated a school uniform, and teachers provided learning materials while encouraging him to stay in school. Upon re-entry in September 2022, Ken was placed in class 7 (the last class in the 8-4-4 system since he couldn’t fit in the new system). The Accelerated Education Program supported Ken through remedial lessons, aiding his preparation for the KCPE exams despite joining school late. The school feeding program ensured Ken had food at school, even though it was lacking at home. UNICEF’s supply of education kits and school bags further facilitated the re-enrollment process, ensuring Ken and his peers had the necessary tools to thrive academically. Additionally, mentorship sessions proved invaluable, offering emotional support and guidance to learners like Ken. As a result of these interventions, Ken not only sat for his KCPE exams but also aspires to attend a reputable secondary school, dreaming of becoming a pilot and shaping his future.

The impact of the “Back to School” program extended beyond Lokuto Primary School. Across 48 primary schools in Samburu Central and East sub-counties, FCA’s OOSC project successfully re-enrolled 4,380 out-of-school learners (2,468 boys and 1,912 girls) against a target of 3,900. Teachers, learners, Board of Management (BOM) members, and community members witnessed remarkable transformations due to the initiative. Increased school enrollments, improved facilities, mentorship sessions, provision of MHM kits/sanitary pads to adolescent girls, and the supply of learning materials contributed to the positive outcomes observed in these schools.

This success story from Lokuto Primary School exemplifies the profound impact of the OOSC project, not only in individual lives but also in the broader educational landscape of Samburu Central and East sub-counties.

The dedication of the School Enrolment Drive Committee, teachers, and the unwavering support from organizations like FCA and UNICEF have paved the way for a brighter future for these learners, ensuring that every child can access quality education and pursue their dreams.

Amina, a determined student, found herself facing monthly challenges that went beyond the typical rigors of academia. Stains in her clothing, discomfort, and the daunting prospect of missing classes during her periods were a shared struggle among many girls in her school.

In 2023 the girls of Marsabit Secondary School collectively embarked on a transformative journey towards empowerment. The catalyst for this change was the Out-of-School Children (OOSC) project, a collaborative effort between UNICEF and FCA Kenya. This initiative aimed to address the multifaceted challenges hindering girls from accessing education, with a particular focus on Menstrual Hygiene Management (MHM).

As the OOSC project unfolded, MHM kits, containing essential sanitary pads and guidance on their proper usage, became a beacon of hope for Amina and her peers. Amina vividly recalls the day she received her kit—a small bag that held more than just hygiene supplies. Unbeknownst to her, this seemingly modest kit would mark the beginning of a positive change in her educational journey.

With the MHM kit in hand, Amina found herself liberated from the worry of stains and discomfort during classes. “It boosted my self-esteem and allowed me to focus on my studies,” she shares, a grateful smile accompanying her words. Amina’s newfound confidence radiated, inspiring her peers to shift conversations about menstrual struggles into empowering dialogues.

Mr. Malicha Dub, the Head Teacher, expressed his gratitude, acknowledging the stark reality that existed before the intervention. “Many girls would miss classes during their periods due to a lack of proper hygiene materials. It affected their academic performance and confidence.” The MHM kits, a simple yet profound solution, include not only sanitary pads but also comprehensive training on proper usage and disposal, ensuring that no girl compromises her education due to a natural biological process.

Data from UNICEF Kenya shows that one in every ten girls miss four days of school a month due to inability to access feminine hygiene products.

The school counsellor, Madam Jillo Waqo, emphasised the psychological impact of the initiative, noting, “girls were more comfortable and confident attending classes regularly. It created a positive atmosphere where they felt supported and understood, contributing to their emotional well-being.” The project’s comprehensive approach extended beyond addressing physical needs; it also recognised and nurtured the mental and emotional well-being of the girls, fostering a conducive learning environment.

Sabdio Ali, a Form 4 student, eloquently shared her gratitude. “Receiving the MHM kit made a huge difference in my life. I no longer had to worry about stains or discomfort during classes. It boosted my self-esteem and allowed me to focus on my studies.” Their stories echoed throughout the school, creating a ripple effect that promotes autonomy and self-determination.

As the academic year progressed, the positive impact of the MHM kits manifested in the girls’ academic performance. Mr. Dub proudly announced, “The end-year exam results were a testament to the success of the OOSC project. The girls who received the MHM kits showed a remarkable improvement in their grades, proving that with the right support, every girl can excel academically.”

Duncan Wambua, FCA Monitoring and Evaluation officer said, “it’s truly heartwarming to witness the tangible impact of our MHM kit distribution. FCA is committed to fostering an environment where every girl can access education without compromise. A small kit can make a big difference,” he concluded.

Joseph Raina the firstborn in a family of five, has emerged as a beacon of success, and his journey is a testament to the transformative impact of FCA Kenya’s Creative Industries program. Joseph’s passion for animation was kindled during his childhood, inspired by the joy of watching Tom and Jerry cartoons. Little did he know that this early fascination would evolve into a flourishing career.

“I always loved drawing cartoons as a kid. It started with watching Tom and Jerry and little did I know it would become my career,” he says.

His artistic journey began in primary school, when a local institution recognised and began selling his artwork. Despite a humble background, Joseph’s dedication to education led him to pursue animation after high school. Facing financial challenges, he resorted to selling stickers on the streets to fund his dream. Fortunately, FCA’s online opportunity became the turning point in his life.

Enrolled in the Creative Industries programme, Joseph delved into the intricacies of moulding characters, principles of animation, and advanced techniques but some of his family were against the idea.

“Some family members didn’t understand animation; they thought I was wasting time drawing cartoons for kids.”

Graduating in 2023 marked a significant milestone, and Joseph’s life took a positive turn. Before the programme, he juggled casual work with studies, earning a meagre income. However, FCA’s training equipped him with the skills and confidence to secure better opportunities.

“It was a game-changer. I applied, got in, and learned everything about animation – moulding characters, animation principles, and advanced techniques. It was a dream come true!” Joseph narrates.

He added, “The skills I got from FCA enabled me to secure a scholarship from the American Embassy. Now, I’m doing film production with an international curriculum, being taught by international producers.”

Currently working with the Kengen Foundation, Joseph not only executes his projects but also delegates work to support his fellow colleagues. The impact of FCA’s programme extends beyond Joseph’s individual success, touching the lives of many youths seeking similar opportunities.

Recognizing the power of the creative industries, Joseph, now the CEO of his own company, has diversified into film production with an international curriculum, supported by a scholarship from the American Embassy.

He emphasises that animation is not just about drawing; it’s about telling stories, preserving culture, advertising products uniquely, and reaching a global audience.

“Animation doesn’t limit you, it gives you freedom of telling stories, share our culture, and advertise products uniquely. FCA’s Creative Industries program opened doors I didn’t know existed. Through it, I’ve become the CEO of my own company.”

Through the skills gained from FCA Kenya, Joseph is eager to volunteer and teach other youths the basics of animation, ensuring that the cycle of empowerment continues. His success is an inspiration, proving that with passion, dedication, and the right opportunities, one can transcend challenges and make a lasting impact. Joseph Raina’s journey stands as a shining example of the limitless possibilities that FCA Kenya’s Creative Industries programme can unlock.

Text: Daisy Obare