We were recently informed of a new nonprofit organization in the Houston, Texas area called Project Afya. We were able to conduct a brief virtual interview with the Founder and visionary of Project Afya, Monicah Ndegwa, and we couldn’t have been more pleased with the answers she provided us with.
Why do you love helping people figure out their problems and make changes?
I don’t think there is anything as frustrating as feeling alone. Feeling like no one understands or cares about you or what you are going through is tough. I want to be that person that gets it and does something to make things easier. That’s why I do what I do.
What are the main things that you want to change with Project Afya?
I want to give people hope, especially mothers with little children, who may feel helpless due to the effects of poverty and hunger. I want them to know that someone cares about them. I also want to empower others to know that they too can do something to help by supporting nonprofits like Project Afya.
During COVID-19, what types of issues did you notice that inspired you to create this foundation?
One of the most devastating effects of Covid-19 in Kenya has been loss of jobs and food insecurity. Even though schools have re-opened, some parents are afraid to send their children to school hungry, so we have introduced a school feeding program to eliminate hunger in schools and to encourage attendance.
Are there any other non-profits doing something similar to what Project Afya is aiming to do?
Yes, there are other nonprofit organizations working towards improving food security in Kenya, but the need is far greater than the resources available.
What tips can you give our readers who may want to help with the vision for Project Afya? How can they help?
At Project Afya we believe that change is possible when people come together. It is not easy to start a nonprofit, and most people who want to help just don’t know where to start. We are always looking for people who are passionate about helping others. Although we are always in need of donations, we also have skills-based volunteer opportunities, especially in the areas of nutrition, health, grant writing, and project planning, implementation, and monitoring. Donations can be made through our GlobalGiving donation platform by clicking on the link below.
www.globalgiving.org/projects/projectafya
What is your own ultimate personal dream?
My ultimate goal is to develop a network of philanthropists who are willing to go above and beyond to develop innovative ways to tackle the most challenging life issues affecting our society today.
What is one quote you live life by?
“The true measure of any society can be found in how it treats its most vulnerable members.” -Gandhi.
To learn more about Project Afya, please follow them here on Instagram.
Stay tuned for more on Monicah Ndegwa – we’re confident she’s going places with this new venture of hers.
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