Daraja, nestled in the heart of Kenya, is not just a school but a lifeline for gifted girls who crave knowledge but lack resources. It has become a global epicenter for social change. This remarkable journey of educating Kenyan girls is fuelled by a 'village' of global supporters who believe in the power of girls' education. Daraja's influence has transcended Kenya's borders, resonating globally. People worldwide have rallied behind these incredible young women, their belief in Daraja's mission unwavering. We warmly invite you to meet just a few of the champions of this movement…
Dr. Sylvia, Kenya
Daktari and Daraja Board Member
I am a DARAJA girl… I know from my personal life and first hand experience what access to quality education does in empowering the individual to maximize their potential The difference this has in not only uplifting their families but also their communities, the country and the world at large is monumental. Education is such an important equalizer for underprivileged girls as it hands them much much needed tools and opportunities to break the cycle of poverty, improve their lives, and contribute to humanity.
Alice, Berkeley, CA Class of 2015, High School Math Teacher
I was born in Isiolo, Kenya as a third child out of seven children. When I was about 2 years old, my parents moved from Isiolo to Nanyuki where they live now. I was raised by my grandparents and even though they did not go to school, they believed in education. They encouraged me to continue working hard. After finishing primary school, my parents did not have money to take me to high school. One day as I was going for free lunch at the Catholic Church, I met my sister Sofia who told me about Daraja and encouraged me to apply. I applied and I got accepted. Since then, Daraja has opened numerous opportunities for me. There are so many ways Daraja has played a role to shape me to the person I am today. The community service, The WISH program, The Transition Program, Daraja pillars and of course the opportunity of traveling to the USA as an exchange student for a month when I was in form four was definitely life-changing for me. I can go on and on about how Daraja has been my pillar, Daraja is my home and will always be my family.
Elizabeth, Zimbabwe
Class of 2018, Bachelor of Health Services Management
Honors from Africa University (June 2024)
I became an orphan at the age of 12 and one of the most difficult things in my life was getting a quality education. I had very little hope but my thirst for education got me a spot at Daraja Academy. I count myself lucky for having had the opportunity to experience Daraja. Daraja did not only prepare me psychologically for the world, it also gave me a chance to compete for unique opportunities made possible by excellent academic performance and leadership. It nurtured me, transformed and made me a woman the world admires. I see so much hope for my community, family and myself now. The values that Daraja instilled in me have pushed me to this level. Thanks to Daraja, I earned a spot in the Mastercard Foundation Program and got to further my education. I can proudly say, I am now a certified Health Services Manager. Daraja is my pride and its light will always shine.
Paula Russell-Gilford, London "Supermum"!!
and Daraja
Board Member
The empowerment of young girls and women through education is essential if we wish to effect positive change in the world. This is a belief I hold strong, so when I was introduced to Daraja I knew I had found something special. When I visited Daraja in person, the word special felt too small. I was introduced to a community created from diversity, with a goal to educate and empower incredible young girls: to encourage them to critically think and strive to achieve beyond what they had imagined. I feel incredibly privileged to be a small part of that community and honored to have been asked to serve on the board.
Malvine, Mauritius
Class of 2019, Studying for a Bachelors
Degree in Electrical Power Systems
Engineering at African Leadership College
Access to education often felt like chasing the wind. Then Daraja stepped in and transformed my story. They did not just offer access to quality education but also, wrapped me in a supportive home full of hope. Daraja opened doors to possibilities I had only dreamt of, turning obstacles into stepping stones and nurturing me into the person I am today.
