Walking With Youth Toward a Brighter Future
Start Walking Foundation is a youth-led, community-rooted nonprofit empowering underserved children and youth across Kenya through wellbeing, education access, leadership development, and knowledge generation.
Learn About Our ProgramsStrategic Targets
By 2031
Who We Are
Empowering Kenya's youth through community-driven solutions and transformative programs
Mentorship Visit
Mathari Mixed & Soymining SchoolsKwetu Home Visit
February 2025 • Community OutreachGirl Child Day
October 16, 2024 • Rongo MixedOur Foundation
Youth-led • Equity-focused • Community-drivenStart Walking Foundation (SWF) is a youth-led, community-driven organization founded in 2025 and headquartered in Rongo, Migori County, Kenya.
Our Growth
From volunteers to structured institutionWe have expanded from volunteer-driven mentorship activities into a structured institution delivering programs across counties, working with schools, communities, and partners.
"Transformation begins with a simple step: when young people are supported to dream, to learn, and to lead, entire communities move forward."
Our Vision & Mission
Our Vision
A future where every student has equal opportunities to excel academically and personally, regardless of socio-economic background, and where educational support improves life outcomes for marginalized communities.
Our Mission
To empower underprivileged and talented students through education, mentorship, wellbeing support, and resources — inspiring them to "start walking" toward a dignified and sustainable future.
Our Guiding Principles
The principles that guide our work and define our organizational culture
Equity
We ensure fair access to opportunities regardless of background or circumstances.
Inclusion
We create welcoming spaces where every voice is valued and heard.
Safeguarding
We protect the safety, dignity, and rights of all children and youth we serve.
Innovation
We embrace creativity and technology to develop transformative solutions for youth empowerment.
Youth Agency
We empower young people to lead, make decisions, and drive change in their communities.
The WALK Framework
Our work is guided by the WALK Framework — a holistic model that addresses the interconnected needs of children and youth.
Wellbeing
Enhancing physical, mental, and social wellbeing through nutrition, menstrual dignity support, and mental-health awareness.
Access
Expanding equitable access to education through mentorship, scholarships, and digital learning initiatives.
Leadership
Building youth capacity in leadership, civic engagement, life skills, and entrepreneurship.
Knowledge
Generating evidence and research to inform community programs, innovation, and policy.
Our Journey
2025 — Foundation Established
Born from a vision to support underserved students in rural communities of Nyakach and Rongo.
2026 — Strategic Plan Launched
SWF formalized its organizational structure, partnerships, and long-term strategy (2026–2031).
2026–2027 — Pilot Programs Begin
Mentorship, menstrual health support, mental health clubs, and youth leadership camps rolled out.
2028 — Expansion to Additional Counties
SWF scales its programs beyond initial regions in partnership with county governments and schools.
2030 and Beyond
A stronger, data-driven institution contributing to policy and community development across Kenya.
Where We Work
Transforming communities across Kenya through strategic regional partnerships
Current Operations
By 2028, we plan to expand to neighboring counties through community partnerships, schools, and county governments.
Rongo Sub-county
Migori CountyNyakach Sub-county
Kisumu CountyExpanding Soon
5+ Additional Counties by 2028Institutional Identity
As a youth-led foundation, SWF embraces a culture of professionalism, compassion, and evidence-driven decision-making. Our model emphasizes:
Community involvement in program design.
Young professionals driving innovation.
Working with schools, government, and NGOs.
Accountability in governance and reporting.
These principles define who we are — and guide how we serve.
Meet Our Team & BoardRegistered NGO
Officially recognizedTransparent
Open reportingYouth-Led
By youth, for youthCommunity-Rooted
Local solutionsWhy Partner With Us
We offer partners authentic community connections, proven impact, and shared commitment to youth empowerment
Deep Community Access
Authentic relationships with rural communities, schools, and local leaders built through years of trust and collaboration.
Measurable Impact
Evidence-based programs with clear metrics, regular reporting, and transparent accountability to maximize your investment.
Innovation & Agility
Youth-led innovation that adapts quickly to community needs while maintaining professional standards and governance.