Jenga Bizna Mtaani program elevating talent in Mathare North: Francis Okinda’s Inspiring Journey

• Communications Team
• August 17, 2023
• JJF News, Press Release
• 0 Comments

The Jenga Bizna Mtaani program is a transformative initiative that is helping to empower vulnerable youth in Nairobi’s informal settlements. One remarkable story from the program is that of Francis Okinda, a member of the Kuza Africa Sanaa youth group from Mathare North.

Francis is a multi-talented artist who refuses to be confined to a single box. He’s a drummer, dance instructor, personal trainer, and choreographer, all centered around African music. He joined the Kuza Africa Sanaa youth group in 2014, two years after completing high school. Struggling to pay for graphic design classes, he was guided by his brother to explore the group. Here, he found not just an outlet for his artistic talents but also a supportive community that changed the course of his life.

Through the support of Kuza Africa Sanaa, Francis was able to perform internationally, even traveling to Dubai in 2015 for a festival. This experience solidified his determination to become a full-time artist. However, the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted his trajectory as live events were canceled. In response, Francis creatively transitioned, using his savings to purchase a motorbike and becoming a motorcyclist taxi rider to sustain himself.

As life gradually returned to normal after the pandemic, Francis found a new opportunity with the “Fill Fitness” group as a fitness instructor. He also reunited with the Kuza Africa Sanaa youth group, continuing to perform and share his talents. Currently, he’s among the group members touring in the Saudi Arabia Abha Shopping Festival.

Reflecting on his journey, Francis expresses deep gratitude for the Kuza Africa Sanaa youth group: “Looking back, my first real money I got from performing with this group, the group has been there for me through some heavy tragedy I have had in my life, they are not just a group for me, they are family. I know I can count on them for any support.”

Francis Okinda’s story is just one example of the transformative power of the Jenga Bizna Mtaani program. By supporting vulnerable youth groups in Nairobi’s informal settlements, programs like these create a ripple effect that not only changes individual lives but also contributes to the overall upliftment of the community. As we witness the tangible impact on individuals like Francis, it becomes evident that funding such initiatives is not merely an investment in businesses; it’s an investment in growth and a brighter future for Nairobi’s most marginalized populations.