Kadogo Nyawade
Founder
Story of the Founder
I was born in 1960 in Nairobi, Kenya. My childhood was marked by struggle, particularly when it came to education. Like many children in vulnerable communities, I faced significant challenges in affording school fees, which threatened to cut short my dreams and opportunities. After many years living and working in Europe, I returned to Kenya with a heart full of hope and a desire to reconnect with my roots. What I witnessed upon my return deeply moved me and changed the course of my life forever. I saw children suffering from malnutrition, their small bodies bearing the visible marks of hunger and neglect. I saw bright young minds unable to attend school simply because their families couldn’t afford the fees. These children reminded me of my own childhood struggles, and I knew I couldn’t turn away. Together with my sister, I began supporting these children in whatever ways we could. We started small, but the need was overwhelming and our commitment unwavering. We knew that to create lasting change, we needed to establish something more permanent and structured. Since our founding, we have supported more than 500 children, providing them with education, nutrition, and hope. Many of these children have gone on to complete their studies, advance to university, and gain meaningful employment. They are now contributing to their communities and breaking the cycle of poverty. Each child we help represents not just one life transformed, but entire families and communities lifted up. Their success stories fuel our passion and commitment to continue this vital work. We believe that every child deserves the opportunity to learn, grow, and reach their full potential, regardless of their circumstances. The Kadowinja Foundation is more than an organization—it’s a promise to the children of Kenya that they are seen, valued, and worthy of every opportunity to succeed.
Eugene Weewee
Vice Chairman
Story of the Vice Chairman
Iwas born in Suriname, a small country in South America. My early years were spent in a village where access to quality education was limited, and opportunities were scarce. Despite these challenges, I harbored big dreams and an unwavering determination to build a better future. To fund my education, I worked in the gold fields—hard, demanding work that tested my physical and mental strength. But I knew that education was my ticket to a different life, and I was willing to do whatever it took to achieve my goals. Through perseverance and sacrifice, I was able to complete my university studies. This achievement was not just personal—it represented hope for everyone in my village who dared to dream beyond their circumstances. My journey taught me that education combined with discipline and determination can overcome even the most challenging circumstances. Today, I carry a strong passion for inspiring young people to believe in themselves and pursue their dreams relentlessly. I understand firsthand the transformative power of education and the importance of having mentors and supporters who believe in your potential. I firmly believe in uplifting communities through education and discipline. When we invest in young people and provide them with the tools they need to succeed, we’re not just changing individual lives—we’re transforming entire communities and creating ripples of positive change that extend far into the future. My role as Vice Chairman of the Kadowinja Foundation allows me to live out this belief every day. I see in the children we support the same spark of determination that drove me to work in those gold fields. I see the same hunger for knowledge and opportunity that fueled my own journey. Together, we are building bridges to better futures, one child at a time. Education is not just about books and classrooms—it’s about opening doors, expanding horizons, and proving that where you start doesn’t determine where you can go.
Two Stories, One Mission
From different continents and backgrounds, both Kadogo and Eugene understand the power of resilience, education, and community support. Their shared vision drives the Kadowinja Foundation’s commitment to creating lasting change in the lives of vulnerable children in Kenya.