Unlocking Potential, One Child at a Time.
Because every child deserves a chance to learn
OUR MISSION —
We open doors for children in Kenya to access education, grow with confidence, and imagine futures rooted in purpose and possibility.
Through direct support for school fees, meals, and creative programming in Kilifi, Kenya, The Nyakim Project helps students stay enrolled, feel supported, and imagine a future with real choices. We do this in close partnership with local caregivers, educators, and community leaders.
In the regions where we work, a child’s ability to stay in school depends on more than just tuition. That’s why we take a holistic approach. For each student, we support school placement, daily food security, emergency healthcare, and consistent emotional and practical care.
Our aim is not just access to education, but stability, dignity, and a sense of possibility for every child, every family, and the wider community.
We believe the gift of learning can transform a young life, support a family, and impact an community. This is an opportunity every child deserves.
For the students. With Local Leaders.
The Team on the Ground.
The Nyakim Project works closely with local administrators, educators, caregivers, and community leaders in Kilifi, who share deep knowledge of their communities and a commitment to children’s education and well‑being. Our partnerships are rooted in trust, shared values, and a focus on long‑term impact for students and families. We continue to learn from and collaborate with committed individuals and groups who support the students we serve.
Location of Focus: Kilifi, Kenya.
Kilifi township resides along the Mombasa coastline. It is one of the most economically challenged regions in East Africa, making it an exceptionally vulnerable area for young girls and women.
In Kilifi only 52% of children are enrolled in primary school
47% of the population are between the ages of 0-14 years old
36% of residents in Killifi have no education at all - we are committed to changing this number.
These figures are more than statistics, they represent real young people whose futures depend on access, stability, and consistent support. In Kilifi, we work closely with a small team of local administrators, caregivers, and educators to ensure students are enrolled in school, have the supplies they need to learn, receive daily meals, and are supported through challenges that might otherwise interrupt their education. Today, we walk alongside over 40 students.
Our Students
Founding Story
In 2019, founder Karen Francis met a young girl named Nyakim in Kakuma Refugee Camp located in the north east of Kenya
Nyakim, just 10 years old at the time, approached Karen each day with a simple yet profound request: "Please ma'am, I want to go to school." Initially believing that Nyakim was already enrolled in a program within the camp, Karen later discovered the harsh reality, Nyakim little access to the education she deserved.
Determined to make a difference, Karen embarked on a mission to locate Nyakim in a refugee camp housing over 300,000 people. Against all odds, she found her. Thus began a transformative five-year journey that would change both of their lives. Nyakim is now completing grade 8, fluent in three languages and about to graduate to senior high. Her dream is to become a doctor, support her single mom and sisters and give back to her home country of South Sudan.
Inspired by this one young girl's determination and potential, Karen realized that Nyakim's story was just the beginning.
Karen founded The Nyakim Project with a vision to expand her reach beyond one child to many more young girls, opening doors to education that were previously closed. This initiative isn't just about providing schooling; it's about igniting dreams, fostering resilience, and creating a ripple effect of positive change in communities.
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Because every child deserves the chance to dream.