Child Sponsorship

Peter, a successful business consultant in Kakuma, has built a career helping local entrepreneurs thrive in one of Kenya’s most challenging regions. His journey, however, began with humble and often difficult circumstances. Raised by his grandmother in Turkana, Peter was a former sponsored child through ChildFund, a program that shaped his childhood and future.

“My grandmother did everything she could to make sure I had a roof over my head and food to eat,” Peter recalls. “But life was tough. There were days when we barely had enough, and education seemed like an unattainable dream.”

Despite these hardships, Peter was determined to change his circumstances, and ChildFund provided him with that chance. His enrollment in the sponsorship program was a turning point. “It was a blessing,” Peter says. “When I was sponsored, it was as if a door opened. Suddenly, I had access to school, and that’s where my dreams really began.” 

One of Peter’s fondest memories as a sponsored child was the time his sponsor sent him money to attend the annual agricultural show in Turkana. “I’ll never forget that day,” he smiles, recalling the excitement. “The agricultural show was a big deal in our region, but we could never afford to go. My sponsor knew how much it meant to me, and when they sent the money, I was over the moon.

Attending the agricultural show had a profound impact on Peter. It exposed him to new ideas and innovations in farming and business, sparking an interest in how communities could use such knowledge to improve their lives. “I saw how agriculture and business could change lives. It made me think about the potential in my community, and I knew I wanted to be a part of that change,” Peter explains.

Inspired by these experiences, Peter focused on his studies, working hard to gain the skills and knowledge he would later use to help others. He eventually pursued a degree in business administration, realizing that his passion lay in empowering others to grow their enterprises.

“Education was my way out of poverty, and I knew that business could be the same for so many others in Kakuma and Turkana,” he says. “I wanted to help people, like my grandmother and the neighbors I grew up with, understand how to make their small businesses thrive.”

After completing his education, Peter began working for various non-governmental organizations, including the World Food Programme (WFP). His role in these organizations allowed him to gain valuable experience and insights into community development and humanitarian work. These experiences not only honed his skills but also deepened his commitment to making a positive impact in his community. 

Today, Peter works as a business consultant in Kakuma, a region known for its large refugee camp and the unique challenges it presents. His work focuses on helping local entrepreneurs— many refugees—navigate the complexities of running small businesses in this environment. 

“My job is to help people turn their ideas into sustainable businesses,” Peter explains. “It’s not just about making a profit but creating livelihoods. I work with shop owners, farmers, artisans—people who have the skills but need the right guidance to grow.”

One of Peter’s greatest passions is mentoring young people in his community, many of whom remind him of his younger self. “I see so many young people who feel trapped by their circumstances,” he says. “I was

once in their shoes, but I want them to know that with the right support, they can create a better future for themselves.

Peter’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the lasting impact of sponsorship programs like ChildFund. “My sponsor changed my life, not just by providing financial support but by believing in me,” he reflects. “That belief gave me the confidence to pursue my dreams, and now I’m able to give back to my community in ways I never thought possible.”

Looking back on his journey, Peter remains deeply grateful for ChildFund’s role. “I’ll always remember where I came from and the opportunities I was given. My grandmother used to say that education was the key to unlocking a better future, and she was right. Now, I’m helping others find that same key.”