On Saturday, CFK Africa hosted its annual Community Awards Celebration in Kibera, shining a spotlight on remarkable individuals and groups making a difference in Kenya’s informal settlements. The event brought together residents, community leaders, and partners to honor grassroots changemakers and celebrate a milestone sporting achievement for the youth of Kibera.
The celebration was led by Rye Barcott, CFK Africa’s Board Chair and Co-founder, alongside Executive Director Jeffrey Okoro. Together, they guided the evening’s program, which recognized outstanding contributions to social justice, education, health, and empowerment across neighborhoods such as Kibera, Mathare, and Kangemi. The awards underscored CFK Africa’s belief that lasting transformation begins within the community itself.
One of the most inspiring moments of the night was the recognition of Kibera Soccer Women FC, fresh from their historic victory in the FKF Women’s Cup Finals. The win marks the first time a women’s football team from Kibera has clinched the national title a testament to the determination and talent nurtured in the heart of the slum. Beyond their sporting success, the players of Kibera Soccer Women FC are deeply involved in CFK Africa’s girls’ empowerment programs, serving as mentors and role models for younger girls navigating the challenges of growing up in underserved communities.
The awards also honored unsung heroes whose leadership often goes unnoticed but whose impact is profound. Among them was Binti Rashid, a teenage mother and passionate advocate for girls’ education. Through CFK Africa’s Funzo Project, which helps young mothers return to school, Binti has championed the rights of girls facing early motherhood, using her own journey to inspire others. For her efforts, she was presented with the Social Justice Award, recognizing her courage, advocacy, and commitment to creating pathways for others to succeed.
Executive Director Jeffrey Okoro emphasized the unique nature of the awards, noting that both nominations and voting were conducted entirely by community members. This grassroots-led approach ensures that recognition comes directly from those who witness the nominees’ work firsthand.
“Despite limited resources, our community shows extraordinary resilience, leadership, and commitment to creating change,” Okoro said. “These awards are proof that the most powerful solutions often come from within.”
The evening was more than an award ceremony it was a celebration of resilience, unity, and hope. Music, dance, and spoken-word performances added vibrancy to the program, reflecting the creativity and spirit of the communities CFK Africa serves. Attendees shared stories, built connections, and reaffirmed their shared mission to drive progress despite the systemic challenges faced in Kenya’s informal settlements.
As the night drew to a close, the sense of pride was palpable not only in the achievements of the awardees but also in the collective vision for the future. CFK Africa’s Community Awards Celebration stood as a reminder that heroes come in many forms: from athletes breaking barriers on the football field to advocates changing lives through education and empowerment.
In honoring them, CFK Africa reinforces its commitment to amplifying local leadership and investing in the dreams of communities determined to thrive.
