Who We Are
Nzumari Community Initiative empowers young people and marginalized communities through arts, mental wellbeing, and strategic partnership.
Our Vision
Thriving, inclusive, and resilient communities where young people and marginalized populations realize their full potential.
Our Mission
To empower young people and marginalized communities through innovative, community-led programmes that advance mental wellbeing, gender equality, social justice, economic empowerment, and civic participation using creative arts, evidence-informed psychosocial approaches, and strategic partnerships.
Our Legacy, Evolution, and community-led Solutions
Nzumari Community Initiative traces its roots to 2000, when it was established as a youth project by the National Council of Churches of Kenya (NCCK) in response to the growing social and economic challenges affecting young people in Huruma and Mathare, Nairobi.
As the initiative grew in reach and impact, it evolved from a youth project into a youth-led community movement. In 2012, it was formally registered as a Community-Based Organization (CBO) under the name Nzumari Africa, expanding its work beyond Huruma to other informal settlements across Nairobi.
A defining feature of Nzumari's work has been its use of creative arts and participatory community methodologies—including theatre, storytelling, puppetry, music, dance, poetry, film, and community dialogue—to inspire healing, learning, advocacy, and social transformation.
In July 2026, the organization transitioned from Nzumari Africa to Nzumari Community Initiative. This transition reflects our growth, expanded vision, and long-term commitment to community-led development while preserving the legacy and relationships built over more than two decades of service.
Roots as NCCK Youth Project
Established by the National Council of Churches of Kenya (NCCK) to address social & economic challenges facing adolescents and youth in Huruma and Mathare, Nairobi (unemployment, HIV/AIDS, mental health, sanitation). Designed from inception with the belief that youth are agents of change, not just beneficiaries.
CBO Registration as Nzumari Africa
Evolving from a project into a youth-led grassroots movement, the initiative formally registered as a Community-Based Organization (CBO) named 'Nzumari Africa'. Services expanded to other informal settlements across Nairobi (Korogocho, Kariobangi, Dandora, Mukuru).
Transition to Nzumari Community Initiative
In July 2026, transitioned to 'Nzumari Community Initiative' to reflect expanded vision, maturity, and long-term commitment to community-led development, while honoring its more than two decades of history.
Our Core Values
These principles guide our work, our decisions, and our relationships in the community.
Community Leadership
We place communities at the centre of designing and leading sustainable solutions.
Inclusion and Equity
We promote diversity, gender equality, disability inclusion, and equal opportunities for all.
Integrity & Accountability
We uphold honesty, transparency, professionalism, and responsible stewardship.
Innovation & Creativity
We harness creative arts and evidence-informed approaches to drive learning, healing, and transformation.
Collaboration
We build strong partnerships and value teamwork to achieve greater collective impact.
Safeguarding and Respect
We foster safe, respectful, and inclusive environments where everyone is protected and valued.
Resilience
We strengthen the capacity of individuals and communities to overcome challenges and thrive.
Our Guiding Principles
These foundational approaches define our programming lens and methodologies.
Evidence-Based Youth-Centered Programming
We design and implement programs backed by community data and evidence, placing youth at the center of all leadership.
Gender Transformative Approach Lens
We actively challenge gender inequalities, harmful social norms, and promote transformational equity and safety for everyone.
Interactive & Creative Methodologies
We harness theatre, puppetry, storytelling, music, and physical arts to mobilize youth and communicate life skills effectively.
Holistic Interventions to Programming
We deliver multi-faceted programs that cover health, mental wellness, economic stability, and leadership as connected needs.
Staff Behind NCI
Meet our passionate team of organizers, counselors, and peer leaders driving change.
Jolly Bridgit Oyaro
Executive Director
Raymond Mwega
Program Manager
Collins Amukoa
Program Officer – Peacebuilding
Dorine Otieno
Program Officer – SRHR & Gender
Grace Kasiva
Program Officer – Mental Health
Yvonne Candice
Advisory Board Member
Our Partners & Supporters
We collaborate with leading local and international organizations to deliver impact.
Empower Communities & Lead Social Change
Partner with us as we work to create healthier, safer, and more inclusive environments where young people realize their full potential.