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General

Meet Rachael – one of our awesome sponsors

January 12, 2021

If you’re looking to make a difference, we invite you to become a Rafiki Mwema sponsor. Rafiki Mwema is home to many children who have suffered unimaginable abuse. It is a safe space where they heal and receive care. But all this comes at a cost. Each month we must raise enough funds to stay operational. To achieve this we rely on our community of sponsors and donors who generously donate and help us keep our doors open. We invite you to join us as a Rafiki Mwema sponsor.

Rafiki Mwema was established in Australia in 2013 to provide therapeutic safe houses in Kenya for young girls and boys who have suffered horrific abuse. The therapeutic safe houses are located on a secure 14-acre property known as ‘Doyle Farm,’ and are home to 70 children from as young as 18 months old up to 18 years old. Through our Outreach Program, we continue to check on another 150 children who have returned home to their communities to ensure they are safe.

While they’re with us, we work to reboot the safety and love the kids feel so they can grow up to be balanced and loving adults. That’s the key to breaking the cycle of abuse.

But all this comes at a cost. Without the ongoing support of our sponsors we would not be able to continue this critical, life changing work.

Rachael has been a Rafiki Mwema sponsor for the past three years. Each month she donates to our children, making an invaluable ongoing contribution. Here she shares her motivation.

Rachael Keenan standing with her colleagues at the ocean.
Rachael, centre, and her colleagues with whom she shares her sponsor updates.

Tell us about the children you sponsor with Rafiki Mwema.

We sponsor two children who are the same ages as my boys. It’s a beautiful connection for the ladies here at work, my family and I. It’s lovely to see the updates and how the boys in Kenya are going.

Why did you choose to become a Rafiki Mwema sponsor? 

I love that Rafiki Mwema give the children in their care a second chance at life. Children who have suffered so many horrors that we can’t imagine and have then been given unconditional love at Rafiki. This has changed their lives and their future. Also knowing that the funds we give do get to the children. Rafiki use the donations to build a better future for the kids.

What motivates your continued support? 

All children deserve to receive love and to live their childhood without a care in the world. However, these children have not been afforded that. They have suffered terribly, often at the hands of those who should be protecting them. I know how lucky we are here in Australia; how lucky I was to have the upbringing I had and how lucky my children are. All children deserve that and our support helps some who have not had that opportunity to experience love and safety and begin to heal.

What’s your favourite part of being a Rafiki Mwema sponsor?

Being able to share the photos and stories of the children in Kenya with my children. Showing my children how important it is to care and how much difference you can make in someone’s life by showing them that they really do matter.

We thank you Rachael from the bottom of our hearts! 

If you’d like to find out more about becoming a Rafiki Mwema sponsor, visit us HERE. With your support we can give every child the chance to live a healthy and productive life.

Filed Under: Blog, General Tagged With: sponsor

Meet Angela, our very first sponsor

December 28, 2020

If you are thinking of becoming a Rafiki Mwema sponsor, our answer is YES! Do it! Through this selfless action you will be directly changing the lives of the children in our care now and for generations to come. There are also many personal benefits to becoming a Rafiki Mwema sponsor as explained by our FIRST EVER sponsor Angela. Read on for her story…

Every month we pay AU$45k just to keep our doors open. Behind these doors is where we care for children who have experienced immense trauma. We provide a loving, safe space for them to heal and provide them with the chance to live a heathy and productive life. We do not receive any government funding and rely solely on the generosity of sponsors and donors, just like you. It is with your help we can meet our running costs and fund projects that help transform the lives of these children. 

Sponsor - Angela Ponsford

Angela is one such person. She has sponsored the children at Rafiki Mwema since 2014 and was our very first sponsor. The importance of her involvement to our children can be best explained by watching this video, taken when they were told of her support. WATCH NOW. 

How does your chosen sponsorship work?

I currently sponsor two children every month, which is a total of $100. The money comes out of my account on the same day each month and I receive a tax invoice via email. At the end of the tax year I’m able to claim the payments as a deduction on my tax return. When I first became a sponsor the $50 was a lot for me to donate each month. But six years later I am able to comfortably donate $100 per month and I support some of the other Rafiki projects (such as the Rafiki Feeding Program).

What initially attracted you to Rafiki Mwema? 

I met Sarah via a mutual friend. I was organising a fundraiser for another charity and wanted some advice from her. She told me about Play Kenya and Rafiki Mwema and knew I had to be involved.

What motivates your continued support? 

Sarah and Anne-Marie’s passion for Rafiki Mwema and the heartbreaking stories of the trauma suffered by the kids in their care constantly remind me that the small amount I donate can really make a difference. I know where my money is spent, and that the Rafiki team work tirelessly to support the children. 

What’s your favourite part of being a sponsor?

When Anne-Marie told ‘Mary’ that she was the first child to be sponsored she was so surprised, excited and happy – she shrieked with joy. Sarah shared the video of her reaction and I burst into tears. Something so small to me made such a huge difference to someone else. Being a sponsor and knowing that it’s not just about the money I’m donating; it’s the sense of worth that you hope the child is feeling. You hope they know they DO matter, that someone they don’t know cares enough to support them through tough times. That’s what keeps me sponsoring and supporting Rafiki Mwema.

We thank you Angela from the bottom of our hearts! 

If you’d like to find out more about sponsoring, visit us HERE. With your support we can give every child the chance to live a healthy and productive life.

Filed Under: Blog, General Tagged With: sponsor

2020 Christmas Gift Guide

November 13, 2020

This Christmas, give more than just a gift. Choose from our wide range of Rafiki Mwema products and support the work we are doing in Kenya.  100% of profits from all items are used for life changing programs. Get inspired and check out our 2020 Christmas Gift Guide below.

Christmas is fast approaching and it’s never too early to start planning your gift giving strategy. 

Whether you’re shopping for dad, mum, your kids, your best friend, work colleagues or partner our unique Christmas gift ideas will make light of the job ahead.

With items starting at just AUD $5 there’s something to suit all budgets. Best of all, you can knock over your Christmas shopping without even leaving the safety and comfort of your home. Choose something from our 2020 Christmas Gift Guide, purchase and then sit back and wait for delivery! 


For Dad

Just in time for Christmas, we have partnered with Farmer and The Scientist, boutique winemakers from the Heathcote region of Victoria, to bring you Rafiki Zabibu. Meaning ‘Grape Friend’ in Swahili, these wines are exclusive for Rafiki Mwema. 100% of the profits go directly to support our increasing running costs and vital projects.

The more you buy, the greater the impact you will have. 

  • One bottle of wine will fund a care worker for one day
  • Six bottles of wine will provide medical supplies for our children for one week
  • 12 bottles of wine (one case) will fund one child’s education
  • 24 bottles (two cases) feeds 35 children for a week 

The Rafiki Zabibu range is hand processed and strictly small batch fermented for maximum flavour. Encompassing a rich Shiraz and a refreshing Pinot Grigio, there’s something for connoisseurs of both red and white.

BUY RAFIKI ZABIBU NOW

For Mum

The leading lady in your life will absolutely love one of our all time favourite collaborations – JAASE x Rafiki. With a wide range of bohemian inspired garments, each piece is lovingly created using original prints designed specifically for us! 

With maxi dresses, short sleeve dresses and tops available each piece has maximum style and comfort in mind. 

CHECK OUT THE RAFIKI X JAASE RANGE

For the kids

We have so many fabulous gifts for the kids, the only issue you’re going to have is choosing! 

If your little one likes something to squeeze and cuddle then you won’t be able to go past our range of soft toys. Our Little Rascals range features an elephant, lion, monkey, zebra, dog and cat. The super cute and cuddly little critters are hand knitted with organic cotton and are 12cm in size when seated. After something a little bigger? Check out the hand knitted Bush Baby Unicorn – bright and cheerful, bound to bring a smile. 

Always a favourite is our cuddly Rafiki Lion. A symbol of power and pride, every purchase of this guy helps to fund our new school. 

If toys aren’t your thing, check out our awesome books and children’s statement t-shirts. We love seeing the kid’s in our ‘Not Silent’ tees, as we all know this is true! 

For your best friend

Check out our Affirmation Cards, the perfect gift which can be enjoyed everyday. Each deck features 55 amazing artworks coupled with empowering quotes and affirmations. Printed on quality 350gsm card and delivered in a beautiful box, this deck is a gift to treasure.

We hope that each day when you pick a card, you are reminded that you are worthy and you are loved.

BUY NOW

For your work colleague

Say goodbye to silly single use gifts for your office Secret Santa. Instead, consider giving a Rafiki Christmas Donation Card. A $20 Christmas Donation Card will purchase school supplies for our new school Jasiri Rafiki. A $50 Christmas Donation Card will go towards supporting ALL the children and ALL our programs at Rafiki Mwema.

For your partner

Shopping for the man in your life? Check out our Kings Polo Shirt. Much like an 80’s cologne commercial the Chad personifies masculine energy and a casual yet reckless attitude to life all wrapped up in a mid-weight polo shirt. Well, that’s the general vibe we’re going for. Popping your collar is optional but not recommended. Available in four colours, so we’ve got you covered.

BUY NOW

If you’re shopping for the lady in your life, she may also like a polo. But if polos aren’t her thing, check out our Tumaini candle by Loobylou. A red rose, jasmine and peony soy candle infused with gardenia, balsam, cardamom & musk. It is a true treat and designed especially for us!

King's Castle Opening {Part 3}

Give more than a gift and visit our SHOP to grab your items from our 2020 Christmas Gift Guide.

So now that Santa’s elves have helped you find the perfect gift for everyone, all you need to do is sit back, relax and know that you’ve made a huge difference to the lives of our children in Kenya.

Filed Under: Blog, General Tagged With: christmasgift, gift, shop

Rafiki Zabibu – turning grapes into good

November 5, 2020

Alongside award-winning wine producers – Farmer and The Scientist – we have created our very own fundraising wine – Rafiki Zabibu. In addition to delighting your tastebuds, this wine has been designed to raise vital funds for our children in Kenya. 


Rafiki Zabibu Red and White Wine


This Christmas, buy a gift with a big impact

With the festive season fast approaching, give a gift for good. A guilt-free item that will put a smile on the face and have a positive impact. 

We have partnered with Farmer and The Scientist, boutique winemakers from the Heathcote region of Victoria, to bring you Rafiki Zabibu. Meaning ‘Grape Friend’ in Swahili, these wines are produced exclusively for Rafiki Mwema with 100% of the profits going directly to support our increasing running costs and vital projects.

The Rafiki Zabibu range is hand processed and strictly small batch fermented for maximum flavour. Encompassing a rich Shiraz and a refreshing Pinot Grigio, fans of both red and white wines will enjoy!


What your wine will do

When purchasing from our Rafiki Zabibu range you are directly making a difference to the lives of our Kenyan children. The more you buy, the greater the impact you will have. 

  • One bottle of wine will fund a care worker for one day
  • Six bottles of wine will provide medical supplies for our children for one week
  • 12 bottles of wine (one case) will fund one child’s education
  • 24 bottles (two cases) feeds 35 children for a week 

Every sip of Rafiki Zabibu counts, so we encourage you to get creative. Buy a case with your mates, give as a gift to family and friends, serve at your work or family Christmas party, say thank you to your favourite clients, or simply stock up your wine cabinet.  Whatever you choose, make your impact and order today. 


Get Giving

Rafiki Zabibu will be available to purchase in a boxes of six or 12 plus delivery* before Christmas. Join our VIP list to be notified in advance of the release. With limited stock, you’ll need to get in quick so you don’t miss out! 

REGISTER HERE TO BE THE FIRST IN LINE

Farmer and The Scientist Wine

Meet Farmer and The Scientist 

Rafiki Zabibu would not be possible without the generous support of Farmer and The Scientist. Jess (the Scientist) runs the wine business with her husband Brian (the Farmer), who manages the DeBortoli Wines 193 acre Heathcote vineyard as well as their own 20 acres of vines. 

Jess first learned about Rafiki Mwema a few years ago when Constance Hall did a massive fundraising effort across her platforms to raise money for our Queens Castle, a much-needed home for our bigger girls. She has been following us ever since and now her children and her business have grown is in a position where she wants (no, has) to help. She has small children and she said she can’t sit by and do nothing. In fact, she can’t actually believe she got in first with this brilliant idea – pairing wine with Rafiki to raise as much money as possible – genius.


BE FIRST TO KNOW WHEN RAFIKI ZABIBU IS ON SALE!

*Delivery within Australia only. $10 VIC & Capital Cities (excl WA, NT), $15 Regional NSW, CBR, SA, TAS & Perth metro. We ship to NT & regional WA/Rural QLD on request.

Filed Under: General Tagged With: christmasgift, pinotgrigio, rafikimwema, rafikizabibu, redwine, shiraz, whitewine, wine

A Survivor’s Journey

October 26, 2020

Rafiki Mwema means ‘Loyal Friend’ and that is what we are to the children in our care. The impact of sexual abuse and the profound lack of care and support for children in Kenya who experience abuse is heartbreaking, compounded by the stigma that then follows. While they are with us, we work to reboot the safety and love the kids feel so they can grow up to be balanced and loving adults.

Our Founder and Director, Anne-Marie Tipper, provides some insight into one child’s journey towards trust –

Anne-Marie and some of the small girls from Rafiki Mwema crowding around her listening to her story.
Anne-Marie and the small girls at Rafiki Mwema

The First Step

Nothing can ever prepare you for the moment a locked down child allows a ray of trust to filter into their heart. The process takes time. You watch and wait. You wonder how you can reach this child who has been in our care for many years. Who pretends all is fine and that she needs no-one. You watch her laugh a laugh that sounds a bit too forced. You see a smile that never reaches her eyes. You worry for this child and the woman she will become if you can’t reach her. You feel her pain and you see her fear but can’t ever get close enough. You know her story, she tells it freely with a giggle and a joke. You feel the pain she denies herself and you watch her break when she thinks no-one sees her. This intelligent young woman fails in school. She fights every system she meets, and she lashes out at anyone who comes near. She is close to breaking yet continues to push the world away. She flinches if your hand accidentally touches her and the hurt she denies hits your heart like the poisoned arrows of our Masai guards. Her defence wall is high and you can’t get in.

Then one evening as you settle in for the night, there is a tiny knock on the door. When you open it this girl is standing there looking more vulnerable and afraid than you have ever seen. She passes you a note and tells you to read it when she is gone. She walks backwards into the darkness. The note that would have cost her every resource she had sits in your hand. The weight of its message is big and the responsibility is immense – ‘Help me. Teach me to control my feelings and not abuse others’. My heart broke in that moment and sang with joy the next. Her heart was ready to open and I was there to help her.

2 Rafiki Mwema girls comforting each other

Brave Beginnings

We are now a little way into her therapy, and it’s early days. She has far to travel but the change is visible to all. She is ready and willing to walk slowly and carefully towards trust. She has laid in my arms and cried a million tears for the mother who sold her body and soul; for the people that entered her life tricked her into opening her heart and then left her; for the hundreds of rapes that she endured before most little girls even start school; for the anger she lived with and the belief she was born bad.

The world is beyond tough and sometimes I feel like the path I am on in this project is hopeless. Can we do enough? Are we getting it right? Could I be better? Am I too old for this stress every day? And then, a moment in time where all your own tears and frustrations mean nothing. A moment when you know you are doing the right thing. The most locked down and damaged soul will fly free into a future because she has chosen to connect rather then stay isolated. She has seen and knows that we are here when she is ready. That 10 year wait for her to be able to believe she is good enough is worth every tear I have shed; every doubt I have faced. This isn’t about me; this is about the children whose lives are touched with love and kindness; the children who must follow their own agenda and take their own time to reach out and trust they are enough.

A Bright Future

Our beautiful damaged and scared soul has a dream. A real dream. She wants to learn how to help girls that feel they are hated. She wants to learn to love herself and help others to love themselves too. She wants to be a therapist and share the love she is opening up to. Her dream is the most beautiful gift I have ever received, and it is a dream that drives me forward. Thank you for the gift of your love.

Notes on Our Approach – Support for children in Kenya

Children who have experienced trauma need to be parented and cared for in a unique way. We use the PACE Therapeutic Model to care and support best charity in Kenya. It is a method which was developed as a way of thinking, feeling, communicating and behaving that aims to make the child feel safe and begin to trust again. You can read more about our methods HERE.

Filed Under: Blog, General, Stories from Kenya Tagged With: Childrens charities, PACE, Rafiki Mwema, sexual abuse charity, support for children in kenya, therapeutic support

How we use Therapeutic Support to heal young minds

October 26, 2020

Rafiki Mwema is committed to the physical and emotional support of the children in our care. They have experienced things we could not even imagine. Things that many adults turn a blind eye to. While they are with us, we work to heal this physical and psychological abuse and seek to reboot feelings of safety and love. We do this so they can grow to be balanced and loving adults. That’s the key to breaking the cycle of abuse. We approach this complex task through our therapeutic support model. It is an approach based on the Dyadic Developmental Psychotherapy (DDP) work that our founder, Anne Marie, administers in the UK. 

Rafiki Mwema Mission Statement

Rafiki Mwema works to understand and repair the intense trauma our children have experienced. Through Dyadic Developmental Psychotherapy (DDP) – a therapeutic parenting model – we help our children make sense of their past. To do this we train our Kenyan staff to ensure our children receive the very best therapeutic support and care. We also educate local communities, schools and government officials to understand the impact of childhood abuse. We provide support and information on this specialised therapeutic support model to service providers globally.

Our Staff and Therapeutic Support 

Our carers and keyworkers provide therapeutic support for our children from the moment they arrive with us. They are key to the model’s successful implementation and are trained to understand the complex behaviours of our children. Staff stay calm and emotionally regulated as they talk with the children, helping them feel safe and secure. Our keyworkers also model kindness, connection and commitment and play a huge part in the healing of these young minds. Through Dyadic Developmental Parenting, our children begin to build safe relationships and rebuild trust. This role is essential to ensure our children heal and survive emotionally when they leave Rafiki Mwema. You can learn more about the role of our keyworkers here.

Our Results

We have safely returned 120 children to a trusted family member in their community. We currently also have four therapeutic houses that are home to 70 boys and girls. Under our care, these children receive medical attention, support through their court cases, education, intensive therapy, therapeutic support and a warm, loving, playful and empathetic environment.

To learn more about our methods, our why or about one of the many ways you can help please get in touch.


Filed Under: General

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