Hello Friends,

During my recent trip to Nairobi, Kenya, with my MBA program at UT Austin, I had the privilege of meeting Daniel, also known as “More Fire.” He led our tour, organized by people who once lived on the streets and now reside in the Mathare Slum. These street tours are designed to give visitors a raw, authentic perspective of life in Nairobi. I learned that much of the money generated from these tours goes directly to supporting the Roots Institute, a school in Mathare that provides vital resources for children and families.

The Roots Institute Centre, located in the heart of Mathare Slum, offers free education (pre-school and primary), nutritious meals, and a safe environment for vulnerable children within the Mathare Kosovo Community. Founded with just seven students, the school has grown over the last decade to serve over 350 children. Its impact is incredible, but the challenges are significant.

Mathare, home to over 850,000 people, is a place where families often live on less than 2 euros a day. The poverty in this area is not a choice but a circumstance that can only be broken through education. Roots Institute is helping to empower the community and break the cycle of poverty by providing children with access to education. Education opens doors to jobs, health knowledge, and improved opportunities for the future.

The Roots Institute’s mission and work are even more critical now, as recent protests in Kenya have halted the street tours, which were a significant source of funding for the school. The families and children who rely on the Roots Institute urgently need continued support, especially during these uncertain times.

In addition to asking for your support, I’ve dedicated my training for the Half Ironman in Galveston on April 6, 2025, to this effort. As I prepare for this race, I’ll raise funds to help provide food, supplies, and education for the children of Mathare. This race is both a personal challenge and a way to bring awareness to the incredible work at Roots Institute. Every bit helps, and your contributions will make a tangible difference in the lives of these children.

Thank you for considering this cause and for any support you can provide to the Roots Institute. As we move forward, I’ll share updates on my training journey and the impact your donations are making. Together, we can help these children build a brighter future.