The MLIFE foundation gave me an experience of Love, openness,virtue and empathy. It was a memorable moment to trained on communication skills, leadership,entrepreneurship and fundraising. The interaction with fellows gave me a strong social network. The lecturers gave their best to ensure we also got the best.
While I was in Mombasa, the MLOVE program caught my eye with its promise to equip fellows with skills in communication, business, leadership, and fundraising. Eager to enhance my abilities in public management and civic activism, I applied. As I delved deeper, I realized my aspirations extended beyond personal growth. I was driven by a vision of forming an NGO dedicated to supporting transgender individuals in Mombasa, a community facing poverty, discrimination, and health issues due to a lack of supportive laws and policies in Kenya.
I focused on addressing the barriers faced by transgender individuals, drawing from my own experiences growing up in Mombasa. I envisioned creating an NGO to provide support and empower transgender individuals to thrive in a society that often marginalized them. Additionally, during the MLOVE program, I aimed to enhance my networking abilities and learn innovative problem-solving techniques to address real-world challenges within the mobile industry and beyond.
As I worked on my NGO concept, I encountered various challenges that tested my resolve. I developed a comprehensive plan prioritizing education and awareness campaigns to combat discrimination. I aimed to partner with local businesses, schools, and community organizations to conduct workshops focusing on the unique struggles faced by transgender individuals. One of the key components was to establish a coalition of allies among these institutions to advocate for policy changes supporting transgender rights.
Through my participation in the MLOVE program, I found inspiration in the passion and dedication of my peers. The camaraderie we built fueled my determination to launch my NGO. Each week, I gained confidence in my ability to effect change and outlined the structure of my organization. My vision includes providing education, vocational training, and mental health support for transgender individuals to help them secure meaningful employment.
The MLOVE program provided me with invaluable tools to refine my approach. I learned the importance of storytelling in fundraising, recognizing that sharing the personal narratives of transgender individuals could evoke empathy and inspire action. By highlighting their resilience and strength, I aimed to challenge the prevailing stereotypes and misconceptions that often surround this community. As I prepared to launch my NGO, I reached out to potential partners and stakeholders, presenting my vision and the impact we could achieve together. I encountered both support and skepticism, but I remained undeterred. I understood that change takes time, and building trust within the community would be a gradual process.
After organizing community forums for transgender individuals and allies, I received valuable feedback that shaped the direction of my NGO. As a result, local businesses offered internships and job opportunities, and educational institutions engaged in discussions about inclusivity and support for marginalized communities. This progress gave me a renewed sense of hope.
Through the MLOVE program and the establishment of my NGO, I've been reminded of the power of community and advocacy. I believe in creating a world where everyone has the opportunity to thrive, regardless of their identity. I am dedicated to continuing this work and being a voice for those who have been silenced for far too long. With the skills and connections gained through the MLOVE program, I am ready to lead toward a brighter, more equitable future for transgender individuals in Mombasa and beyond.
MLIFE is truly a game-changer for San Francisco's kids! Having attended their events, I'm blown away by their support in fostering critical thinking, creativity, clear writing, and confident speaking. The programs are educational and super engaging, making learning a blast. MLIFE's team of dedicated mentors creates a positive and nurturing environment, empowering these youngsters with skills that extend well beyond the classroom. Seeing the lasting impact on the children's confidence and communication abilities is heartening. Kudos to MLIFE for making education so inspiring and fun!