Why Girls? A Q&A on Girls’ Empowerment with Dr. Karen Austrian
“There is tremendous power in investing and intervening during adolescence, which is a critical window in our development.”
CFK Africa has benefited from tremendous leadership for over 20 years, with a staff of 80+ on the ground and a dedicated team of Board and Advisory Council members.
With over 15 years of experience, Jeffrey brings a steadfast commitment to community-led development, passion for the power of education, and a growth-oriented mindset to lead CFK Africa.
He has strong roots in the Kibera community and finds joy in providing services that help uplift adolescents and youth. Growing up in Kibera and experiencing the power of education firsthand, Jeffrey serves as a powerful role model for youth in informal settlements.
Okoro first volunteered with CFK Africa as a youth leader after post-election violence in 2009. He has since risen through the ranks of the organization, from a peer mentor to administrative assistant, project officer, program coordinator, and most recently as deputy director. In 2018, he co-founded CFK Africa’s Best Schools Initiative with Professor Steve Arnold and has since collaborated with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology to strengthen the program’s research objectives, which aim to improve education in primary schools in communities where we work and guide transformative policies for informal settlements globally.
Jeffrey is committed to empowering people to empower themselves. He served as a 2019 Metis Fellow, working toward accelerating the pace of education reform across Africa. Jeffrey earned a Bachelor of Science in Project Planning and Management from Moi University and a certificate in Business Mathematics. He also earned a certificate in conflict analysis from the United States Institute of Peace.
Mediatrix is a highly motivated and results-driven programs and research coordinator with over 11 years of progressive work experience in programs and research.
A believer in the participatory approach to development, Mediatrix has led programs in Kenyan informal settlements and rural areas on sexual and gender-based violence, the supply of sanitary commodities to adolescent girls, and sustainable business opportunities for rural women. She has also carried out research consultancies and lectured university courses on development, research methods, project planning, and management in Kenya.
Mediatrix holds a Masters of Arts in Development Studies from the Institute for Development Studies at the University of Nairobi and a Bachelor of Education (Arts) degree from Kenyatta University. She has certification in Monitoring and Evaluation from the Population Studies Research Institute at the University of Nairobi.
Dr. Kinoti has dedicated his career to improving affordable healthcare services and policies in Kenya.
With over a decade of experience in managing the quality and affordability of clinical healthcare, Dr. Kinoti oversees service provision at CFK Africa’s three facilities, Tabitha Medical Clinic, Tabitha Maternity Home, and Youth Friendly Services Centre. He is committed to sustainability, accessibility, and community wellbeing.
His previous work includes roles at the Ministry of Health – Kenya, TATA Chemicals Ltd., HealthX Africa, and Beacon of Hope. His medical expertise, paired with business insight, enables Dr. Kinoti to effectively guide our clinical efforts. Dr. Kinoti holds a degree in Medicine and Surgery (MBChB) from Nairobi University and a master’s in business administration in Healthcare Management from Strathmore University.
With professional experience as an auditor, Jinalo offers a wealth of expertise having worked with one of Kenya’s leading audit firms.
Jinalo has extensive experience in provision of professional audit and audit related services to a variety of institutions including private companies, banks, government bodies, United Nations organizations, donor-funded projects, NGOs, and projects implemented by various NGOs, both local and international.
Throughout his career, he has gained extensive knowledge of public sector practices, having worked on public finance projects and programs in the East African region, including Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Sudan, Somalia, and Ethiopia. He brings these skills to guide the finance and administration of CFK Africa.
Jinalo holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Commerce (Finance) from Kenyatta University and is a Certified Public Accountant. He has certification in USAID and CDC Financial Management and Compliance.
Beth-Ann is a non-profit leader, higher education administrator, and multimedia producer with 20 years of experience specializing in global research and education development, data analysis, and international evaluation.
She has completed professional work with organizations including Carnegie Mellon University, the Nature Conservancy, the UNC Mathematics and Science Education Network, and served as a Senior Program Officer and Fulbright Program Advisor at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
Beth-Ann served over three terms on CFK Africa’s Board of Directors and produced Without a Fight, an award-winning documentary that explores how soccer can facilitate social change in Kibera. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Terrestrial Ecology from the University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown. She enjoys playing bass guitar in a good rock and roll show on occasion.
Keith is a dedicated community development professional with strengths in livelihoods projects and sports for development.
Keith believes that that informal settlements are home to some of the most resilient, creative, and entrepreneurial people in the world. As CFK Africa’s Education and Livelihoods Lead, he oversees the implementation and coordination of projects aimed at improving educational outcomes and economic resilience.
Prior to joining CFK Africa, he served as a Project Officer for For Children’s Sake Initiative, where he contributed significantly to the planning and execution of programs focused on child welfare. He also gained valuable experience as a Project Coordinator at Kenya Ports Authority. Keith holds a Bachelor’s degree in Project Planning & Management from Moi University.
Vivian leads CFK Africa’s innovative Best Schools Initiative to improve graduation rates in informal schools.
With over six years of experience in project management, Vivian brings skills in research design, program implementation, and teamwork. Leading the BSI, she forges new partnerships, hosts feedback sessions, and works with schools and administrators. Previously at CFK Africa, Vivian worked as a Project Assistant under the Education, Entrepreneurship, and Development team, specializing as a VSLA trainer and as a Trainer of Trainers.
Her previous work includes Umande Trust, assisting with youth and women’s empowerment, and at Tabaka Mission Hospital, contributing to HIV/AIDS relief efforts. Vivian is also a photographer, committed to community storytelling, and is a part of CFK Africa’s communications team. Vivian holds a Bachelor’s degree in Development Studies from Bugema University. She also earned a certificate in Research Methodology and Quantitative Methods from the Collaborative Institution Training Initiative.
Joshua is a dynamic and results-driven leader, with over 9 years’ experience in multifaceted roles at CFK Africa.
With a deep-rooted passion for empowering the next generation, Joshua is committed to breaking barriers and bridging gaps in education. Originally from Kibera, Joshua first began as a volunteer with CFK Africa. Soon after, he joined the team as Project Officer for the Best Schools Initiative. As a Project Officer for Education implementing the Lux Sit & Jim Rogers Scholarship Program, his work now includes scholarships, mentoring, community engagement, and advocacy.
Recognizing the vital role an encouraging work environment plays in enhancing productivity and staff well-being, Joshua is dedicated to maintaining a safe and efficient workplace for our exceptional team. Joshua obtained a Bachelor of Technology in Building and Construction from The Technical University of Kenya. He also earned a certificate in Research Methodology and Quantitative Methods from the Collaborative Institution Training Initiative.
Lucy strongly believes in the transformative power of education to shape societies.
She is committed to using her project management skills to drive meaningful change and contribute to a brighter future, specifically for children and youths from underprivileged areas to access education and realize their dreams.
Lucy is passionate about education, leadership, and fostering collaboration and innovation to address challenges and create opportunities. She is dedicated to continuous personal and professional growth to effectively lead and inspire others towards a better world. Lucy earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education and Teaching from the University of Nairobi, and a Master of Science in Project Management from the Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT).
Kennedy is dedicated to improving the lives of informal settlement youth through sports.
As a social worker, Nick brings experience in youth leadership development and the power of values-based sports.
For over 10 years, Martha has championed community empowerment, specializing in youth development and fostering employability.
Martha serves as CFK Africa’s Program Officer for TechCraft project. Through this initiative, she works directly with youth, equipping them with essential life skills, business acumen, and technical skills. This holistic approach empowers them to become self-sufficient and flourish in the tech and trade sectors.
Prior to joining CFK Africa, she held positions with USAID and the Kenya Private Sector Alliance. Her passion lies in building strong partnerships and delivering impactful programs that unlock young people’s potential. Martha holds an undergraduate degree in Community Resource Management and is currently pursuing a Master’s degree focused on Youth Development.
Joy brings over 5 years of expertise in health administration and health systems strengthening, committed to building partnerships to ensure positive health outcomes for all.
With deep roots in the Kibera community and with CFK Africa, Joy first joined the organization as a volunteer administrative assistant. She began a full-time role at Tabitha Medical Clinic as an assistant administrative officer in 2018 and currently serves as the lead administrator for CFK Africa’s three health facilities in Kibera.
Joy has a Bachelor of Science in Health Systems Management from Kenya Methodist University and a diploma in Healthcare Management from Kenya Institute of Management.
Yunus is a community health and development specialist with expertise in community mobilization, project management, research, and facilitation.
He holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology and Political Science from the University of Nairobi and a Diploma in Community-Based development and Project Management from PREMESE Africa Development Institute. With over 12 years of experience, he served as a Program Officer in a Public Health position and has also worked with different organizations such as AMREF, Africa Network for Health Knowledge Management (AFRI-AFYA) and KEMRI/CDC in coordinating several community-based projects.
Eddah is a seasoned health programs lead with experience in program design, management and evaluation.
She has over 14 years experience in health care management, health systems strengthening, public health research and disease surveillance at community and facility level. She previously served as CFK Africa’s program coordinator for primary healthcare, managing three healthcare facilities as well as community health initiatives, and was instrumental in facilitating CFK Africa’s COVID-19 response and expanding the organization’s WASH initiatives to 5 new counties in Kenya.
She previously held positions at Washington State University and Kenya Medical Research Institute in partnership with CDC. Eddah holds a Bachelor of Science degree in health systems management and a diploma in clinical medicine and surgery, and is currently studying for her master’s degree in epidemiology and disease control.
A pioneer of innovative girls empowerment program models, Siama is a fierce advocate for women and girls in informal settlements.
A founding member of CFK Africa’s Binti Pamoja program in 2005, Siama has been engaged with CFK Africa’s girls empowerment programs for nearly two decades as a volunteer, peer mentor, Project Officer, and now Program Officer. She brings expertise in safe spaces, Girls Parliament, projects supporting teenage mothers, and large sensitization campaigns on issues faced by girls and young women.
Siama is trained in sexual and reproductive health, leadership, and girls’ mentorship. She has successfully built partnerships and collaborations with other community-based organizations that work with girls, creating safer environment for girls in informal settlements of Kenya.
Dorine is a public health professional with expertise in water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) and maternal and child health programming.
Instrumental in spearheading the scaling up of our WASH initiatives in other Kenyan informal settlements, Dorine has built strong networks and partnerships with county and sub-county government officials in Nairobi, Kiambu, Nakuru, Kisumu, and Mombasa. She previously served as a Project Officer under CFK Africa’s WASH and Maternal and Child Health projects and believes in the power of a behavior change communication approach to foster sustainable health behaviors in informal settlements.
Dorine holds a Diploma in Environmental Health Sciences from the Kenya Medical Training College and is currently pursuing her Bachelor of Science in Environmental Health Sciences at Kenyatta University.
Jane Ouko Ondiek is a dedicated and experienced professional in the field of Maternal, Newborn, and Child Health (MNCH).
Jane brings experience in teaching and practical nutrition work, previously serving as an assisting lecturer at KMTC-Karen Campus, and as an Intern Nutritionist with various organizations including CFK Africa, Moi teaching and referral hospital and St. Luke’s Orthopedic & Trauma Hospital, Eldoret. Her work at CFK Africa focuses on community case finding, growth monitoring, nutrition education, and counselling, as well as training community health promoters and coordinating field outreach.
Jane holds a Master of Public Health with specialism in Epidemiology from the University of Glasgow, U.K., B.Sc. degree in Nutrition and Dietetics from Kenya Methodist University, and a Diploma in Community Nutrition from Kenya Medical Training College (KMTC).
Lilian is a dedicated team player and experienced feminist mentor passionate about ensuring girls and women from underprivileged backgrounds access reproductive health and financial education.
Lilian joined CFK Africa’s Binti Pamoja project in 2011 as a savings mentor. With her hard work and great interest in serving the community, she was quickly entrusted as a savings coordinator. She has risen from peer mentor, to Community Health Promoter, Savings Coordinator, Project Assistant, and currently Project Officer for CFK Africa’s Girls Empowerment Program.
She previously worked with Plan International as a mentor and community facilitator for adolescent girls. Lilian is committed to using her skills in project management to drive meaningful programs that align with her values. She is dedicated to continuous personal growth to effectively lead and inspire others towards better and safe communities for all. She holds a Diploma in Social Work and Community Development.
Rosenell is a project planning and management specialist with over 10 years of experience in the development world.
Currently leading CFK Africa’s Funzo Project in Kilifi County, she has worked in combatting Gender Based Violence, child protection, and disability programming. She is an expert in implementing projects targeting girls, women, youth, and children, with experience in advocacy, movement building and stakeholder engagement. Rosenell is passionate about the wellness and empowerment of adolescent girls and young women which guides her work.
Rosenell holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree (Sociology and Communication Double Major) from the University of Nairobi.
Frank leads CFK Africa’s nutrition community outreach activities across Kenyan informal settlements.
A nutritionist with expertise in maternal and child health, Esther supports MCH-related nutrition at CFK Africa’s health facilties.
Stella leads the skilled nursing team at Tabitha Maternity Home, delivering ante- and post-natal services to mothers and their children.
Kenny Kibet works tirelessly to ensure safe deliveries for expecting mothers at Tabitha Maternity Home.
Passionate about maternal and child health, Florence is a senior nurse at Tabitha Maternity Home.
Macrine leads the nursing department at Tabitha Medical Clinic.
With over 20 years experience as a Medical Laboratory Superintendent, Regina brings a passion for providing high-quality laboratory services that contribute to positive patient outcomes.
Austrine ensures that patients receive not just medication, but also guidance towards better health outcomes.
Austrine has over 12 years of experience in the pharmaceutical sector. He previously served as a pharmaceutical technologist for Washington State University’s Global Health Program, Melchizedek Hospital, and a pharmacy superintendent at Luc’ Pharmaceuticals before bringing his talents to CFK Africa’s Tabitha Medical Clinic.
Austrine holds a Bachelor of Psychology degree from Kenyatta University and a diploma in pharmaceutical technology from Nairobi Technical Training Institute. He is currently pursuing a Master of Science degree in Health Management at Kenyatta University.
Peter ensures organization, maintenance, and protection of confidential medical records to support patient health.
Nathan is an experienced Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) professional driven by a passion for leveraging data-driven insights to enact meaningful change.
He brings experience in program management, monitoring, and evaluation within the development sector, with a focus on initiatives aimed at community development spanning education, health, and livelihoods.
Nathan designs, implements, and manages M&E systems to gauge program effectiveness and boost organizational performance. Previously, he worked to ensure the success and impact of organizations including AVSI Foundation Kenya and Plan International Kenya. First joining the team as a Data Officer, he currently serves as CFK Africa’s Monitoring and Evaluation Lead.
Ruto holds a Bachelor of Commerce degree from the University of Nairobi and has completed M&E training with the Kenya Institute of Management (KIM).
Lorraine is a creative and results-driven professional with 14 years of progressive experience in human resources, operations, and administration.
She has delivered talent acquisition, retention, and motivation solutions that help organizations harness the full power of one of their most valuable assets – their people. She previously held senior roles at Safaricom PLC and Dexis Consulting Group – A USAID sub-contractor. Lorraine brings skills in talent management, reward and recognition, employee relations, client services, and project management to ensure the CFK Africa team is set up for success.
Lorraine previously served on the SOYA Awards committee, founded in 2004, to recognize outstanding sports performers in Kenya. She holds a Bachelor of Commerce degree in Human Resource Management.
Motivated by making a positive impact both on his team and the community at large, Gerald brings diverse skills in Finance and Administration.
First joining the team as an Accountant, Gerald now serves as CFK Africa’s Administrative Lead. His previous experience includes 10 years with the US African Development Foundation, where he served as a Project Accountant and later Enterprise Manager, overseeing project implementation and managing a Sustainable Food Security program in Turkana West sub-County.
His work as Administrative Lead propels CFK Africa’s mission forward. Working in informal settlements, Gerald seeks not only to be involved in sustainable community change but also to actively contribute to project implementation. Gerald earned a degree in Bachelor of Commerce – Accounting from Egerton University, with professional exams in Accounting in addition to certifications in Digital and Cyber Security Awareness from Alison.
Maureen is an accomplished Communication & Advocacy enthusiast with expertise in communication, public relations, social media management and content development.
With a passion crafted over years of immersive experience, she specializes in developing compelling communication campaigns and strategies, creating experiences that bridge the gap between the brand and its target audience. Maureen excels in positioning brands as industry experts, driving engagement and loyalty.
She has relevant experience in creating, curating, and sharing relevant SEO content, and possesses strong skills in various communication aspects such as paid media, email marketing and newsletters, press releases and public relations.
Maureen earned a Bachelor of Science from the University of Eldoret and is currently pursuing her Masters in Communication at Daystar University, Nairobi. She enjoys binging on sci-fi series, dancing salsa, and books.
Lawrence is a Procurement professional managing purchasing and developing efficient operations systems.
Robert manages CFK Africa’s technology systems and connectivity to ensure smooth operations.
Emma is a global education and outreach professional with over 10 years of experience in non-profit settings and at academic institutions.
She has worked with institutions of higher education such as the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and Duke University to support global initiatives and engage in outreach efforts to share university resources and knowledge with the broader community. She has also held positions with internationally-focused nonprofits including WorldDenver and LEAF Global Arts. A passion for strengthening global understanding and partnerships drives her work.
Harver holds a M.A. in International Education, a B.A. in Global Studies and Political Science from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and has studied Arabic and French.
Hannah Lineberger is a public health practitioner with experience working with nonprofits and government contractors in the global health space.
Most recently, she worked as a Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL) Specialist with Abt Global, supporting MEL initiatives across three country activities within the USAID-funded Local Health System Sustainability (LHSS) project. Previously, Hannah served as the U.S. Communications Manager with CFK Africa, where she helped coordinate a full organizational rebrand to support the nonprofit’s expansion to 20+ informal settlements. She is excited to re-join CFK Africa to support innovative, participatory research and evaluation efforts focused on improving health and social outcomes.
Hannah holds a Master of Public Health (MPH) from the UNC Gillings School of Global Public Health and B.A. degrees in Communication, International Studies, and Spanish from NC State University. She is an alumna of the Park Scholarship and Social Innovation Fellows programs.
We thank all of the members of our 80+ team, including additional support staff, clinical staff, interns, and volunteers for their tireless efforts to serve our communities.
We are guided by a joint Kenya-US Board of Directors who volunteer their time and expertise to maximize CFK Africa’s impact. They provide us with a strong, steady foundation even through the most difficult times. We are forever grateful for their support and expertise.
Our Kenya Board of Trustees and U.S. Board of Directors operate together on a Joint Board.
Co-Founder, CFK Africa; Co-Founder and CEO, With Honor
Education Activist
Founder and CEO, Second Front; former CFK Africa Peacock Fellow
Co-Founder and Director, Hillsborough Photography and Retired Professor, Department of Health Behavior, UNC-Chapel Hill
Director, IT Audit Services, Duke Energy Corporation
Professor and Associate Dean, Gillings School of Global Public Health, UNC-Chapel Hill
Finance Manager, AfricaNenda
Executive Director, Smart Power Africa, Power Initiative, The Rockefeller Foundation
Founding Managing Director, Kenya, BowerGroupAsia
Senior Manager, Cloud & Digital Analytics Insights at PwC
Kenan Professor of Anthropology, UNC-Chapel Hill
In 2020, we convened a diverse group of international leaders and volunteers that will guide CFK Africa’s strategic decisions and assist us as we continue to develop local leaders and catalyze change in informal communities.
64th U.S. Secretary of State
Foreign Service Officer, U.S. Department of State; former CFK Africa Peacock Fellow
Executive Director, UHAI: East African Sexual Health & Rights Initiative
Emory University Professor; Former Director, CDC Global Disease Detection Division in Kenya
Angel Investor and Advisor to Start-ups, Technology Entrepreneur
Professor of Integrated Science and Technology, School of Integrated Sciences, James Madison University
Professor, Harvard Business School; former CEO, Medtronic
Professor of Public Service, Founding Director of the Center for Public Leadership, Harvard Kennedy School
Partner, Riverstone; Professor of Practice, Imperial Business School in London
Entrepreneur; Principal Architect, Space Form Studio
Chief Executive Officer, ACRE Africa
Group CEO and Managing Director, The Standard Group PI
Vice President for Global Health, Emory University; Director, Emory Global Health Institute
Cahners-Rabb Professor of Business Administration; Co-Unit Head, Negotiation, Organizations & Markets, Harvard Business School
CEO and co-founder, M-KOPA
Harvard University Distinguished Service Professor, Harvard University Center for the Environment, Harvard Kennedy School, Belfer Center for Science and International Affairs
Partner, Asphalt & Ink; Co-Founder, WomenWork Kenya
CEO and Co-Founder, Otto, CFO and Co-Founder, FarmMoja and Senior Consultant, Axum
Former White House Senior Director and Special Assistant to the President of the United States, NSC, Board Member & Advisor
U.S. Representative for North Carolina’s 4th Congressional District (retired)
CEO, UNC Health Care; Former Director, U.S. CDC
Board Member, Sall Family Foundation; Adjunct Professor, UNC School of Public Health
3rd Chief Technology Officer of the United States; Co-founder, the Malala Fund
Dental Friends Distinguished Professor of Dental Ecology, UNC School of Dentistry
Professor of Social Medicine, UNC School of Medicine, UNC-Chapel Hill
Professor of Sociology, Gender & Development Studies, Kenyatta University
CFK Africa has benefited from tremendous leadership on the ground and on our Boards for nearly 20 years. We recognize the tenure of our past Board Chairs, who volunteered and helped us grow at each stage of our movement to be a model of participatory development and responsible research in informal settlements gripped by cycles of extreme poverty and around the world.
Professor of Integrated Science and Technology, School of Integrated Sciences, James Madison University
Executive Director, Smart Power Africa, Power Initiative, The Rockefeller Foundation
Cahners-Rabb Professor of Business Administration; Co-Unit Head, Negotiation, Organizaitons & Markets, Harvard Business School
Senior Advisor, GIZ-PSDA
Chief Executive Officr, ACRE Africa
Division Director of Human Resources, Isuzu East Africa Ltd.
Deputy Managing Director, Bank of Africa (retired)
Owner of Bull City Running
Training Consultant, SelectTempStaffing
“There is tremendous power in investing and intervening during adolescence, which is a critical window in our development.”
“As I am giving, I am learning.”
“One story that stands out in my mind is meeting a brilliant young lady who had dropped out of school due to teenage pregnancy but has been facilitated by CFK Africa’s Funzo Project to go back to school. This story of hope in a seemingly hopeless situation, amongst many similar ones, and its ripple effect on the future generations of this family is simply heartwarming.”
Who We Are
CFK Africa is a registered NGO in Kenya and 501(c)(3) nonprofit in the U.S. that empowers youth in slums.
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