Story

My Name is Brian Odhiambo, and I Need Your Help to Stay in School

Hello, my name is Brian Odhiambo. I am 14 years old, born and raised in Kibera, one of the largest informal settlements in Nairobi, Kenya. Life here is not easy, but my mother has always taught me that education is the key to a better future.

I was raised by a single mother who works as a casual laborer, doing laundry and selling vegetables to provide for me and my younger sister. She has always done her best, but with the rising cost of living, even putting food on the table is a struggle. Despite our challenges, I worked hard in primary school and scored good marks in my KCPE exams. I was overjoyed when I received an acceptance letter to one of the top secondary schools in Kenya.

But now, I am facing a heartbreaking reality—I might not be able to join because we cannot afford the school fees. My mother has tried everything, from borrowing money to seeking bursaries, but we are still far from raising the amount needed. I have watched some of my classmates pack their bags and leave for school, while I remain behind, wondering if my dreams will ever come true.

I am reaching out to you, kind-hearted strangers, because I believe that education should not be a privilege—it should be a right. I want to study hard, excel, and one day give back to my community. I dream of becoming an engineer so that I can help build better homes and infrastructure for people in places like Kibera.

Any contribution, no matter how small, will bring me one step closer to sitting in a classroom instead of watching my future slip away. If you are unable to donate, please share my story with others who might be able to help.

Thank you for taking the time to read my story. Your kindness and generosity could change my life forever.

With hope,

Brian Odhiambo