Building Hope Academy

In February 2024, I had the incredible opportunity to return to Kenya for a second time — this time not just to visit but to volunteer at the wonderful Building Hope Academy (BHA). If you’ve read my previous blog about my time with the Olimba team, you’ll know how deeply I connect with Kenya and its people. This experience, however, was truly one of a kind.

Building Hope Academy is a remarkable school that provides education and protection to children who otherwise would not have access to schooling. Founded in 2013 by David, the visionary behind The Nairoshi Foundation, BHA’s mission goes far beyond teaching. It’s a sanctuary for many children, especially young girls, who are at risk of being subjected to harmful cultural practices such as female genital mutilation (FGM). The academy serves around 300 students across 10 year groups, and its impact is immeasurable.

Teaching the youngsters: A life-changing experience

During my time at BHA, I had the honor of working with the youngest students, many of whom were just about five years old. Teaching these adorable little ones was one of the most fun and rewarding experiences of my life. Their energy, enthusiasm, and endless curiosity made every day feel special. Even though they were so young, they were incredibly engaged in their lessons and always eager to learn. I also had the chance to play sports with them, as well the olders ones, which brought so much joy and laughter to both them and me.

What truly touched my heart was the amount of love the children showed. Despite the school’s limited resources, the kids were so eager to learn and make the most of everything they had. It was a reminder of how powerful a good education can be, no matter the circumstances.

The Teachers: Passionate and Inspiring

The teachers at BHA are some of the most dedicated and inspiring people I’ve ever met. Each one is a university graduate who works tirelessly to ensure the children receive the best education possible. They are more than just educators — they are role models, mentors, and protectors for these children. The love and commitment they show to their students is truly remarkable. They make a huge difference in the lives of these children, many of whom would have no other opportunities for education without the academy.

Living at the Volunteer House

As part of my volunteering experience, I stayed in the volunteer house with other volunteers. It was a cozy and welcoming place to unwind after a busy day at school. Living together with other volunteers was a fantastic experience.

How to support the Building Hope Academy

While I was there, I saw firsthand how important the school’s mission is. The children’s resilience and eagerness to learn, despite the limited resources, were truly inspiring. However, the academy faces ongoing challenges, especially with the government’s recent transition to the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC). Unfortunately, private schools like BHA do not receive the updated textbooks from the government, and the school is in urgent need of support to provide the necessary learning materials.

Building Hope Academy is currently raising funds to purchase new books for various subjects, including English, mathematics, Kiswahili, social studies, and more. With your help, we can provide the students with the resources they need to thrive under the new curriculum.

If you’d like to donate, you can contribute to the campaign by sponsoring a specific class (around 380 CHF per class), and you’ll receive a heartfelt thank-you video from the students, along with updates on the progress of the campaign. Every contribution helps make a difference. - (But first let me know — so I can inform them from where the donation came from, and like this I can make sure you receive a lovely thank you Video.)

Where to Learn More and Donate

If you’re interested in learning more about Building Hope Academy and how you can help, here are a few ways to get involved:

• Facebook: The Nairoshi Foundation

• Instagram: @thenairoshifoundation

• Website: www.nairoshi-foundation.org

• Instagram Highlights: @Jessica.bruehwiler (for a closer look at my journey)

  
  

Your generosity will help provide a brighter future for these children and contribute to the growth of this amazing school. I can’t recommend enough the experience of visiting BHA — whether on a volunteering trip or just as a visitor. It’s an unforgettable journey, and you can even combine it with a safari in the stunning Masai Mara!

Thank you so much for your support, and I hope you’ll join me in making a positive impact on the lives of these incredible children.

Best regards,Jessica & the Building Hope Academy Team