When Fizi School closed for the November–December 2025 break, something remarkable happened: the gates stayed open.
For 18 days across the holiday period, children who would otherwise have faced empty hours and uncertain meals found a second home at the school in Kabiria, Nairobi. This was the Friends of Fizi Kabiria's Summer Camp 2025—and it exceeded every expectation.
A safe space when it matters most
The idea behind the Summer Camp was simple but essential: during school breaks, many children in Kabiria lose access to the daily meals and structured activities that support their development. In a neighbourhood where over 50% of Nairobi residents face daily food insecurity, that gap matters.
So twice a week, on Mondays and Thursdays, the school opened its doors. An average of 80 children showed up each day—to eat, to play, to learn, and to be kids.
Volunteers led games, drawing sessions, and story readings. Community helpers pitched in with logistics. Teachers received professional development through workshops on Excel, financial management, community leadership, and mental health. And in late December, a volunteer-sponsored Christmas celebration brought traditional food and festivities to the entire school community.
"The Summer Camp wasn't just about filling a gap," said one volunteer. "It was about showing these children and families that they matter—even when school is officially closed."
The numbers tell the story
The results speak for themselves: 18 days of meals and structured activities, 10 volunteers and 4 community helpers engaged, and 80+ children participating daily. Four capacity-building courses were delivered to teachers and staff, integrating child-focused programming with professional development.
But numbers only capture part of the picture. The real impact was in the laughter during games, the concentration during drawing sessions, and the sense of belonging that carried children through the holiday break.
Introducing Fizi Bright Saturdays
Building on this momentum, Friends of Fizi Kabiria is launching a new initiative: Fizi Bright Saturdays.
Starting in 2026, volunteers will gather at Fizi School one Saturday each month to lead games, arts activities, reading sessions, and mentorship for the 170 children the school serves. It's a chance for inspiring individuals in Nairobi to experience the Fizi School community firsthand—and to create joyful moments that children will carry with them for life.
No experience is required—just enthusiasm and a warm heart.
The first Fizi Bright Saturday is scheduled for Saturday, March 14, and sign-ups are now open. Interested volunteers can register through the Volunteer Bank form, and the Friends of Fizi Kabiria team will be in touch with details.
Sign up here.
A community growing stronger
Fizi School was founded in 2014 by Congolese refugee educators with a vision: that every child in Kabiria—whether Kenyan or refugee—deserves access to quality education, daily meals, and a safe environment to grow. More than a decade later, that vision is expanding.
From a Summer Camp that kept children fed and engaged during the break to monthly volunteer gatherings that build community year-round, Friends of Fizi Kabiria is proving that sustainable change happens one relationship, one meal, and one Saturday at a time.
Ready to be part of it?
🔹 Donate: https://www.fizischool.com/donate
🔹 Partner with us: partnerships@fizischool.com
🔹 Get in touch: contact@fizischool.com
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