Our teams in Kenya and Tanzania are the backbone of our organisation. Everyday, they are working to ensure that children across Tanzania and Kenya can break the cycle of poverty through access to quality education. Our entire on-the-ground team is made up of local nationals who have a deep and culturally appropriate understanding of the multiple barriers that exist to education.

Since 2009, So They Can’s reach is 56,000 students and teacher graduates through our Education Program.

Our Local Leaders Series is an opportunity to spotlight the staff that are leading our programs on-the-ground in Kenya and Tanzania. In this profile, we are delighted to introduce our supporters to James Wabara, Assistant Country Manager & Head of Community Development Program, Kenya. 

What is your role at So They Can?

I started at So They Can in 2015. I am So They Can’s Assistant Country Manager & Head of Community Development Program, working in both Baringo and Nakuru, Kenya.

What is your professional background?

My professional background is in program design, systems strengthening, safeguarding, and child and youth development initiatives within the care and protection sector in Kenya.

I am passionate about working with marginalised communities and supporting the development of practical, sustainable, and community-owned solutions that strengthen support systems for vulnerable children and families.

What motivates you in your role at So They Can?

When leading So They Can’s Community Development Program in Kenya, I am motivated by the fact that we are working with some of the most vulnerable in society, where there is often little hope left. I am so happy that with So They Can ’s support, we are building a legacy of care, offering the next generation the opportunity to grow up with a sense of love, respect and security.

Also, let’s not forget how inspiring it is that some of our pioneer participants are already living independently after successfully completing their education and training. Take for example, Samuel Munyonyo. Samuel enrolled into primary education at Aberdare Ranges Primary in Kenya, So They Can’s first partner school in 2009. At just six years old, he grew up in a family where financial hardship meant pursuing higher education was almost impossible. Today, he is studying pharmacy at Kenyatta University. He will be travelling to Sydney in July for So They Can’s Annual Gala Dinner.

What is a project you’ve been working on at So They Can that you are particularly proud of?

Miti Mingi Village (now the “Child and Youth Development” project). The transformation of this project has been phenomenal.

One of So They Can’s “sustained” projects, Miti Mingi Village started off as comprehensive institutional based care for children without homes in the communities where we work. However, as our model has developed, in 2016, we transitioned to small group care or an institutional family based care model. This approach has meant embracing family and community based care 100%, a reintegration of all children into their communities and a further focus on supporting families through the development of entrepreneurial skills, life skills and seed funding for income generating activities. 

What is your vision for So They Can moving forward?

To create thriving and empowered communities through innovative education and community development interventions which are sustainable, thereby unlocking opportunities, improving lives, and building a better future for all.