At Rafiki Mwema, every connection we make has a story, and we are thrilled to share a particularly heartwarming one today. Recently, we received a generous donation from Emmanuel Anglican College in Ballina: a collection of their unused sports jerseys and uniforms. This gift was unique, not just because of the items themselves, but because of the beautiful connection it represents.
Ordinarily, we wouldn’t accept such donations, as transporting these items to Kenya poses logistical challenges. The only way to get them to our children would be for Sarah, one of our dedicated team members, to personally carry them over on her next trip. However, this time was different and special. Sarah’s daughter, Lovisa, attends Emmanuel Anglican College. With Lovisa having grown up alongside Rafiki Mwema, the donation felt like a meaningful gesture, bridging two communities that are close to our hearts.
Lovisa, now 13, has always been a part of our extended Rafiki family, and seeing the children in Kenya wear uniforms from her school is a touching symbol of unity and support. It’s more than just clothing; it’s a way for the kids to feel connected to a community that cares deeply about them, despite being oceans apart.
Though Lovisa shied away from being in the spotlight and opted out of the photo opportunity, her excitement about this initiative was palpable. She, along with the rest of us, is eager to see the kids in Kenya proudly don their new uniforms. We can’t wait to capture their smiles and share them with everyone back in Ballina.
We are incredibly grateful to Emmanuel Anglican College, not only for the high-quality jerseys and uniforms but also for their thoughtful gesture of offering to cover any excess luggage costs that Sarah might incur while bringing them to Kenya. This level of support and kindness truly exemplifies the spirit of community and generosity that we cherish.
This donation is a beautiful reminder of how small acts of kindness can create a ripple effect, connecting people across continents and fostering a sense of belonging and love. We are so fortunate to have the backing of such a wonderful school and its incredible community.
Thank you, Emmanuel Anglican College, for your support and for being part of our Rafiki Mwema journey. Your contribution will bring joy and pride to the children we support, and it strengthens the bond between our communities. Together, we are making a difference, one uniform at a time.
Below is the article that was posted in the EAC newsletter 🙏🏼