By Clarkson 

I grew up in Kibera, Nairobi's largest slum, where life was tough. My father struggled as the sole provider to feed our family and pay school fees for four children. Constant peer pressure and conflicts at home caused me to run away; I even lived on the street for about three months like a street child. I was lonely and struggled to communicate or share anything.

My life changed dramatically when I met Madam Leah Asego and was accepted into the Volunteers Foundation program. The Foundation immediately began providing what I lacked and introduced me to new programs and mentorships.

Most importantly, they introduced me to music. Starting classes in 7th grade, I discovered my deep passion for music, the one thing that truly made sense to me.

After high school, I felt compelled to give back to the community that raised me. I returned to the school, teaching music to younger kids and helping out. With support from Monica, I pursued my passion, searching relentlessly for a school until I found a Diploma program in Music at Kenyatta University.

Volunteers Foundation Academy became my platform for practical lessons, allowing me to apply my theory by teaching the kids. They taught me invaluable virtues like patience, love, and group work, and fundamentally changed how I communicate and live with people.

Today, I am working at Access Leo Burnett, an opportunity I owe to the Volunteers Foundation. I am earning my daily bread thanks to their support. Volunteers Foundation is not just an organization; it’s a community. Monica has been like a second mother and my mentor.

I am truly grateful to Monica and Volunteers Foundation for the big hand they stretched out when I needed help. They changed my life.