In a world that sometimes seems filled with challenges, Beatrice Nyariara stands out as a shining example of a passionate changemaker who believes in the transformative power of kindness. With a Degree in Social Communication from the Tangaza University College through the Catholic University of Eastern Africa in 2007, she has dedicated her life to making society a better place, especially so for children. Beatrice’s journey in the world of social impact has seen her serve as a Communication Advisor at Children Peace Initiative Kenya and as the Co-founder and Program Coordinator of Hearts4Service, a Community Based Organization offering psychosocial and material support to children from challenging backgrounds. Today, she is the driving force behind Kipepeo Safe Space, a nonprofit committed to providing underprivileged children and youth with opportunities, support, and safe spaces for growth and development. Join us in getting to know Beatrice and the incredible story of Kipepeo’s mission.
So, to kick things off, can you give us a bit of backstory about Kipepeo? What’s the organisation all about, and what kind of positive change are you aiming for in underprivileged communities?
Kipepeo is a free children’s space where children come to study, play and interact through positive activities, under adult supervision.
What’s the “aha” moment or inspiration that led to the creation of Kipepeo? How did this journey begin?
Years ago, I used to do weekly mentorship in our two local schools. Through interactions and home visits with the children, I realised there was a huge gap. The children had no free available spaces to do personal study or just hangout in the community. In most underprivileged homes, furniture, good lighting and a peaceful environment to do extra study is a luxury. This got me thinking of solutions, and so the Kipepeo Safe Space idea was born.
Kware Slums in Ongata Rongai, Kenya – why was this the chosen starting point for Kipepeo’s work?
Ongata Rongai is home and I get to witness and see the challenges children face here. I believe one should start by solving the challenges close to them.
Tell us about the cool stuff you guys offer. What programs and services are in Kipepeo’s toolbox for helping out these awesome kids and young people?
We are first and foremost a free space for children aged 6 to 18. We offer learning resources and books through our library service. In addition to our 2 core offerings, we offer mentorship, wellness and life skills sessions, art class, chess and indoor games, literacy training and digital skills training.
The idea of safe spaces sounds fantastic. How has this space made a difference in the lives of the kids you serve?
The space supplements the noble work by the public schools where resources are stretched and this is evidenced by their improved literacy and learning outcomes. The kids also now have a safe space to pass time when out of school, away from vices that are unfortunately prevalent in their community. Long term, I am sure we will record reduction in teen pregnancies, crime, and improved transition into highschool and transition to university. The kids have picked up new things such as chess and art. We’ve noted positive attitudes and improved self esteem amongst Kipepeo users as well.
What are some real-world skills and educational opportunities Kipepeo provides to help these young folks grow and thrive?
We try to introduce the children to many opportunities with the hope of them discovering inborn talents and skills. We started with chess and a number of children are doing so well and we know the game will take them far. Recently we were gifted a beautiful guitar and are in the process of looking for a professional to introduce the children to guitar. You never know if one of the amazing children is the next Polycarp Otieno (Sauti Sol).
Let’s chat about nurturing talent – how does Kipepeo do that, and do you have any standout success stories you can share?
Our best chess player learnt about chess through Kipepeo. In less than a year he has bagged a couple of medals in different tournaments. We believe it will open doors for him and we are here to knock on those doors and guide him every step of the way
Beyond the kids and youth, how has Kipepeo impacted the larger community it works in?
When a child is happy, secure and their needs catered for, it creates hope for the community. These children we serve daily will be the changemakers in the near future. Some who have used the space have managed to secure scholarships in national schools and this will definitely help line their path for success.
Every journey has its bumps and victories. Can you share some of the challenges you’ve faced and some memorable achievements along the way?
Our biggest challenge has been keeping the doors open. We don’t own the current space we are using, covering the bills has been a tumultuous task. Our second challenge is human resource, not everyone is able or in a position to give their time and resources to help run the space everyday. We hope to get funds to recruit paid human resource.
Who are the amazing folks behind Kipepeo? Tell us about the team and the wonderful volunteers who make it all happen.
From day one Kipepeo has achieved all these milestones through amazing kind and patient individuals. Our team of board of directors have ensured we pay our bills through involving their friends, families and networks. We also have been blessed by the kindness of our volunteers who give their skills and resources. Our chess team was born and continues to thrive through the dedication of coach George Simiyu.
What’s the grand vision for Kipepeo’s future? How do you plan to spread your wings and help even more communities in the long run?
Children are our present and future as a community and a country, we hope to serve them through opening more spaces in the areas needed most.
For those inspired by Kipepeo’s work, how can they get in on the action and support this awesome mission?
You can support us by donating funds to pay our bills, donate your time virtually or physically, donating learning and play materials.
Share a touching success story or a special moment that reflects the positive impact Kipepeo has had on a child’s life.
I’ll share two. In our first year, a young man preparing to do his national exam walked in, said hi and asked to just sit for five minutes and meditate before studying, he did that and studied for about 30 minutes. Every day when walking home to or from the space I ran into children who either ran to hug me or smile at me shouting words of greetings. Both these incidents are a testament that truly we have managed to create a safe space for children who are surrounded by the ills of poverty that try to pull them down.
What would you like to say to the potential supporters and volunteers who want to be part of the Kipepeo squad?
Each and every coin, every minute, every skill donated to the work we are doing at Kipepeo Safe Space touches a child’s life, we welcome you to join us on this journey.
