Our History

Twenty years ago, Cate, an educator with an unwavering passion for nurturing young minds, embarked on a journey that would change the lives of countless students. It all began with a single act of kindness when she encountered a bright student whose mother worked on Cate's mother's farm in Kenya. This student, despite his academic potential, faced an uncertain future as his family could barely afford basic necessities, let alone high school fees. Determined to make a difference, Cate committed to funding his high school education for the next four years.

As word spread about Cate's generosity, more students in similar situations sought her help through primary school teachers and the wider community. These bright young minds, having excelled in their primary school exams, were at risk of losing their hard-earned high school admission spots due to financial constraints. Cate's mission evolved into a broader goal: ensuring that these talented students could attend reputable high schools, regardless of their financial background.

As the number of students in need grew, Cate reached out to family and friends for support, laying the foundation for what would become the Tumaini Education Sponsorship Program. Trusting Cate with their donations, sponsors saw firsthand how their contributions were transforming lives. This informal network of support quickly expanded, and the demand for sponsorships surged.

In 2022, with a significant increase in students and a stretched budget, Cate's family recognized the need for a more structured approach. They encouraged her to establish the sponsorship program as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, enabling broader fundraising efforts. Thus, Tumaini Education was born, dedicated to helping bright students from disadvantaged backgrounds in Kenya access high school and university education.