Award Winner of BC’s Multiculturalism and Anti-Racism Awards
In 2022, I founded the Valid Dreams Foundation to channel my passion for social justice, sustainable development, empowerment, and equality. My work is dedicated to supporting vulnerable and marginalized communities, particularly empowering BIPOC individuals to find their voices and achieve their full potential.
My journey in advocacy begins long before my Valid Dreams Foundation story, and includes roles as a Senior Manager with Connective Support Society, Manager and Programs Coordinator for the Mustard Seed in Kamloops and Edmonton, and work with Axis Family Resources Kamloops, focusing on youth at risk. Before moving to Canada, I was a Regional Consultant and Program Coordinator for UN Women and a Principal Partner to Sustainable Economic Development Organizations. My advocacy roots also include serving as a Youth Representative for the Federation of Women Groups Kenya in 2013, Chairperson for the 2020 Ventures in 2017/2018, and a Board Member for Drive Happiness in 2019.
Women Empowerment in Kenya
As a Regional Consultant and Program Coordinator at the United Nations in Kenya (2016-2017), I had the opportunity to drive significant initiatives in Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment through the Empower Women Program and Women Economic Empowerment Principles. Collaborating with government agencies, local communities, and other stakeholders, I conducted research to identify barriers preventing women and girls from reaching their full potential as well as on effective solutions to these barriers.
I coordinated events and workshops attended by over 400 women and youths, increasing awareness on issues like FGM practices, domestic violence, and financial literacy, especially for women in rural areas. I formed strategic plans for rural Youth and Women Economic Empowerment, raising awareness on stabilization programs, strategies, and policies for rural development.
Reducing Homelessness & Poverty in Edmonton
From 2018 to 2021, I worked in Edmonton as a Programs and Basic Services Manager at The Mustard Seed, a Christian non-profit organization dedicated to eliminating homelessness and reducing poverty. I was challenged to create impactful programs and manage a team of over 25 employees and more than 30 volunteers across The Mustard Seed Hubs in Edmonton and Kamloops. These hubs focused on community development, engagement, empowerment, and inclusion, with initiatives like Women’s Empowerment, Health and Addictions Awareness, Community Men’s Group, and Legal Aid Supports for incarcerated youth.
Collaborating with government agencies, businesses, and other organizations as well as the volunteers I recruited and coached, I created employment opportunities for those experiencing homelessness and other vulnerable populations.
Valid Dreams Foundation
I founded this community-driven organization with the vision of fostering inclusivity and empowerment in the Kamloops region. Formerly known as Kamloops Africans’ Association, our foundation is dedicated to bridging cultural divides and creating a welcoming space for all individuals, regardless of background.
At Valid Dreams Foundation, we believe in the transformative power of community engagement and cross-cultural dialogue. Through a variety of events, workshops, and programs that are both culturally enriching and educational, we aim to empower marginalized communities and promote social cohesion.
Our initiatives are designed to cultivate a sense of belonging and inclusivity, and build a community where every voice is heard, every dream is valued, and every individual thrives. We collaborate closely with local partners, organizations, and volunteers to create meaningful impact and lasting change. Explore our website to learn more about our programs, upcoming events, and how you can get involved in making a difference with Valid Dreams Foundation.