Visiting with supportive women from the Dagoretti Community
Mandy and I had the opportunity to serve with Center for Transforming Mission in Nairobi, Kenya from 2007-2008. Since returning, we enrolled in masters programs at Miami University in Ohio, where we continued to reflect on our Kenyan experience.
During our time in Nairobi, Joel’s parents (Randy and Beth Zylstra) visited us and developed a deep commitment to several grassroots leaders serving in Nairobi. Our memories and ongoing relationships have fostered a new perspective in our lives, in how we view our communities, and how we make sense of a complex world. Despite the chronic temptation in America to view our friends in Kenya with a sense of pity, we think of them in the opposite way- as pioneers, as courageous leaders, and transformers of an oppressive system that tries to marginalize the communities that they represent.
Through this lens, it is an honor for me and my dad to consider riding a bike across the country, knowing that each mile offers one more tool to connect appreciative youth with education opportunities. Dagoretti 4 Kids is one organization (among many) that has shaped our perspective, our faith, and our hope in what often feels like an overwhelming world. I hope that you too, feel compelled to consider individuals and communities that have made a lasting impression on your life and find a way to honor them.
Thank you for taking the time to learn more about this adventure. I hope that you will consider learning more about Dagoretti 4 Kids and offer a pledge toward their sustainable education project.
Peace,
Joel (and Mandy)
