stories
Of
Impact
I have worked with over 20 young people from BPL Kenya and it has been an incredible experience. Their diversity in background, perspectives and skills brought a dynamic energy to Boy With a Ball Kenya. Each learner contributed unique insights and demonstrated a strong sense of commitment, creativity and adaptability. Through mentorship, these learners have been empowered with improved social interactions skills fostering a deep connection with themselves, with others and the society at large. I have walked with them through the communities with one mission, to love them and equip them to thrive. I believe in showing up not just with words but also with presence.
These young people are not too young to lead, they are not too small to make a difference and are not limited by where they come from but are propelled by who they are becoming. I encourage them to carry what they have learnt here into the world. To be kind, to be bold, to serve others and to reach back and lift others the way they were lifted. The world is theirs to change, one relationship, one dream and one courageous step at a time.”
The two main things I have noticed are that before my son John Terry joined BPL Kenya, he was very shy but after joining he became very jovial, and started to interact with others. BPL Kenya also gave him an opportunity to explore his talent. He likes drawing a lot and that gave him a job opportunity at his internship site, Elimu project. I am also grateful to Tabasamu Watoto Education center and Big Picture Learning for supporting him through high school. I urge them to continue supporting us, and not only me but also the others who are needy.”
I’m really happy with what BPL Kenya is doing: empowering our children. I have two of my children who have gone through the program in two different years and I have seen how they have changed for good. They are now driven, they know what they want, and they are not afraid to advocate for themselves. The other good thing Big Picture does is it keeps our children busy after they finish grade 12. We know how in our communities we struggle with drug and substance abuse, teenage pregnancy, crime and many other vices. This program keeps them busy, it leaves them no time to engage in such things. My only wish is that they expand it to our children who have graduated from the University because they really need it.”
My name is Victoria Wambui, I am a mother of 4. Cheka Mamas’ is now 14 years old and has more than 50 members who are tailors now. This work has helped us a lot and our leader, Carol, is the one that took us for training in 2018 at Kibera Public Space. Here every one is a mother with kids in school and when we make items like the ones displayed here, we sell them and are able to support the members so they can pay for their children’ s school fees, support their families and save for the future.”
Through Kuna Nuru Leadership Academy I have been able to become more confident. I was able to stand before the whole class and share my leadership story which I would have not done before. I have also become more self aware and I now know my strengths and areas of growth and I can also identify my stressors. I enjoy the skits that we present in class and also being part of my advisory.”
When I joined Kuna Nuru Leadership Academy I was very timid and avoided talking because I didn’t feel like I was qualified to. Through the sessions in level 1 I became more confident and now I am able to contribute in a group and to also speak in public. In level 2 I had an opportunity to intern at Project Elimu organization where we assisted kids who love art and also made sure they did not injure themselves when skating. This also reignited my passion for art and I enjoyed working with the kids. After the internship the organization offered me a job which has also helped me support myself financially. I also had a chance to do a project that I was passionate about on single parenthood because I had experienced it. It gave a chance to get the view of my community members and also hear the possible solutions that they had.”
Stories of Impact
Interviews
Hear directly from young people and advisors of the Kuna Nuru Leadership
Academy as they reflect on their journeys of growth, mentorship, and discovery.
Their voices capture the spirit of a community that believes in youth potential and
walks alongside young people as they shape their futures.
Impact
and Reach
Numbers
These figures reflect the reach and growth of the Kuna Nuru Leadership Academy
to date. Each number represents young people and educators engaged in learning,
mentorship, and real-world opportunities as they build skills and confidence
Our
Impact
Quantifiable Impact:
Driving Employability and Behavioral Change.
60%
Average increase in self-efficacy scores to above
90%
validating the program’s focus on mindset shift.
KNLA Alumni currently employed, in entrepreneurship, or enrolled in post-secondary college.
98%
Reach
Numbers
Number of young people impacted by the Leadership Academy
+239 youths
Number of young people who have received scholarships:
+13 scholars
Number of schools reached:
+12 schools
Number of school leaders reached
+260 school leaders and teachers
Number of young people who have received the International Big Picture Learning Credential:
+47 youths
Number of Educator Exchange programs:
4+
OUR AIM:
LAUNCH OVER 200
LEADERS ANNUALLY
The demand for the KNLA program is exceptionally high, underscoring the critical need for its unique educational model. In a recent year, over 300 young people applied for just 50 available slots. To accommodate this overwhelming interest and address the significant need, BPL Kenya has expanded the program to serve over 100 young people. This expansion highlights the program’s success and its vital role in providing alternative, relevant education to youth who often lack the skills and competencies needed to thrive after leaving traditional schooling.
