A Heart Full of Kenya: Our Latest Visit to Jolaurabi with Educate the Kids
There’s something about Kenya – and especially Jolaurabi School – that grabs hold of your heart and doesn’t let go. We’ve just returned from another unforgettable trip with Educate the Kids, and although the dust from the red roads may have settled, the emotions certainly haven’t.
Over the past week, we’ve been lucky enough to spend time with the incredible pupils, teachers, families and volunteers that make up the Educate the Kids community. Every visit is powerful in its own way, but this one felt especially meaningful.
A Week of Moments That Matter
From day one, we were welcomed with hugs, music, and joy – and we dived right in. Between visiting classrooms, handing out food parcels, chatting with parents, and catching up with old friends, we found ourselves reminded (yet again) of how extraordinary this school really is.
Whether it was the karate practice that had us in awe, the laughter over melting ice creams after school, or the vibrant hum of choir rehearsals, every day was full to the brim. George and Hetty even got stuck in with teaching – singing songs with the nursery class and teaching history to Grade 9. Watching them connect with the children and staff was an honour in itself.
The Harsh Realities Behind the Smiles
But behind the warmth and resilience, there were also moments that brought home the daily challenges these children face. One day, we took a young girl we sponsor to hospital. She’d been suffering with severe pain due to a UTI—something that could’ve been treated months earlier for around £5. But her family simply couldn’t afford it.
That moment was a sobering reminder: what we might spend on coffee and cake can mean urgent medical care or a month’s worth of education for a child in Kenya. The difference sponsorship makes cannot be overstated. For just £11 a month, a child can access an education that truly transforms their life – and often that of their family too.
Home Visits and New Friendships
Some of the most special moments happened outside the classroom. We visited the homes of some of the children we sponsor, were treated to lunch by the amazing Ruth Sammy, and delivered knitted hats and donated teddies to children in the villages – all small gestures that meant so much.
We also had the chance to video call a sponsor friend back home so they could “meet” their sponsored child – a beautiful, emotional exchange that we won’t soon forget.
A School That Sets the Standard
During our stay, we also visited a nearby state school with around 1,900 pupils and 90 children per class. Despite the teachers’ dedication and the students’ enthusiasm, the lack of resources was stark. It made us even more grateful – and proud – of the work Educate the Kids continues to do at Jolaurabi. The care, support, and vision this school offers is like nothing else we’ve seen.
Saying Goodbye (For Now)
As we packed to leave, we were flooded with hugs, laughter and a few tears. These trips never feel long enough, and there’s always a tug to return as soon as possible – which we will (another shoe trip is already in the diary for January!).
But the good news is: the joy is coming to us next.
The Singing Children of Kenya Are Coming to the UK!
📅 22nd – 29th September | Portishead • Clevedon • Bristol
We are beyond excited to welcome back the Singing Children of Kenya this September. The choir is sounding phenomenal (we got a sneak preview!), and their performances are not to be missed. Tickets will go on sale soon – keep an eye out!
Thank You
To everyone who welcomed us in Kenya – Edward, Kombe, George, Ruth, Chris, Stella, and all the wonderful team at Jolaurabi – thank you. Your warmth and dedication continue to inspire us.
To anyone reading this: if you’ve ever thought about getting involved, now is the time. I'm always happy to chat about it! Sponsorship is more than money – it’s love, connection, and opportunity. It's the chance to help a child dream big and succeed.
🙌 Sponsor a child here: https://www.educatethekids.com/support-a-child/
We can’t wait to see our Jolaurabi family again soon – and we can’t wait for you to meet them too.
