KEVIN LANGAT
KENYA, 19
Project: Tunza Community Based Organisation (Tunza CBO)
Basic Human Needs: Education, Environment, Health, Safety
Kevin witnessed countless problems faced by his peers while attending primary school in rural Kenya. Students came to school without uniforms or shoes, exposing them to health risks; lacked school supplies required to study, and his female peers often missed school due to lack of sanitary pads. Even more disturbing, Kevin knew girls who had been sexually abused and/or forced into marriage immediately after graduation. In December 2017, Kevin created Tunza Community Based Organisation (Tunza CBO) to diminish the challenges that oppress students in rural Kenya and ensure a quality education for all students. Tunza CBO’s initiatives address a range of issues inside and outside the classroom. They lead mental health education workshops, distribute uniforms, shoes, educational materials and sanitary pads, in addition to providing mentorship. Tunza CBO has impacted 5,000+ students, and schools have seen a substantial improvement in students’ grades and an increase in attendance, especially with girls. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Tunza CBO distributed information to accurately educate the public about preventing the spread of the virus. Kevin hopes to soon offer scholarships to students who cannot afford to pursue their education. Currently a MasterCard Foundation Scholar at African Leadership College, Kevin is pursuing a career in computer science. He aspires to use technology to tackle many more societal needs, such as creating a sustainable food system for our future population.