To celebrate International Women’s Week 2025, we’re highlighting DTRE’s chosen charity of the year, Empowering Kids In Kenya which supports a school project in Mombasa, called the Bombolulu Education Centre. This initiative provides free secondary education and a safe space for at-risk girls, helping to create a brighter future for the community.
As a trustee, Paul Graham has been working closely with the charity to expand opportunities for these students. In conversation with Claudia Harley, he shares his experiences supporting the charity’s mission. Having already grown a local primary school from 30 to 300 students, the charity is now focused on helping its graduates continue into secondary education.
This work is about more than education—it’s about long-term change, empowering students, particularly girls, to take control of their futures.
About the charity
The charity provides free education, a safe environment, and life changing opportunities for secondary-age children in Bombolulu, Kenya. The school selects those who have a strong desire to learn but face financial and structural barriers to education. Without access to schooling many are exposed to harmful circumstances. The charity wants to educate and empower them to raise their community.
Previously, the charity helped a local primary school grow from 30 to 300 students. Now self-sustaining, its graduates need access to secondary education– their next mission.
How did you first get involved with the project - School project in Bombolulu, Mombasa, Kenya?
Our inspirational founder, Sally Searle, was receiving the “Outstanding Individual Award” at an international DHL conference for her involvement with the school project in Bombolulu, Mombasa, Kenya. I felt compelled to say “hello”. We shared the same beliefs and passion which led me to becoming a trustee for the school.
What does your role or involvement with the charity entail?
Working with my fellow trustees to deliver the best possible education for as many as possible. We try to protect the vulnerable and at-risk children and promote gender equality in all that we do and provide an example for the local community.
What inspired you to dedicate your time to this cause?
Sally inspired me to believe when we first met that it is possible to make a difference. We live privileged lives. Most children in Kenya, particularly girls, do not. Supporting those facing the greatest barriers are at the heart of all we do.
Can you share a particularly meaningful or memorable experience you've had with the school?
We now have a “Safe House” for the most vulnerable girls. Gender based violence and abuse is far too prevalent. I just wish we could provide more spaces.
How do you think initiatives like this impact the community and the students?
Women and girls in Kenya get a raw deal. We are constantly looking into how we can make inroads into the “gender chasm”, by setting an example to the local community. The ethos of the school is about equal standing for girls and developing their potential to become strong and confident young women. This also includes changing the learned behaviour and attitudes of our boys towards girls. 50% of our staff are female and we operate a strict equal pay policy.
Have you faced any challenges in your involvement, and how have you overcome them?
The list is endless. Supporting traumatised children. Cultural bias. Financial and regulatory. Buying land and building a school in Kenya is far from straightforward. We face all our challenges head-on as a team.
What lessons have you learned through your work with the charity?
Humility. The most vulnerable and disadvantaged can flourish with the right support. It is possible to make a difference. Many of the children, both boys and girls, have experienced gender-based violence, and their resilience is inspiring. Their determination to improve academically alongside the dedication of the staff has been a powerful reminder of the potential these children have.
How can others get involved or support the project?
Any financial support however large or small is gratefully received. If anyone is interested in providing regular support, a £20 monthly donation sponsors a child’s education, uniform, food and books. Sponsoring an at-risk girl in the safe-house and providing full-time care takes £40 a month.
Immediate one-off financial support is required for specific investments in infrastructure and equipment. It is essential we install PV on the roof for reliable power, which is also good for the environment. We always need other equipment such as laptops etc. Sally specifically requested I mention the urgent need for period pants. Again, good for the environment.
We always welcome support from volunteers with different skill sets and backgrounds. You can visit our school and get involved. Alternatively, remote online sessions on wide-ranging topics with our kids greatly broadens horizons. Help wherever you can.
Why is it important to you to give back in this way?
It just is! There is so much more work to do.
What advice would you give to someone looking to get involved in charitable projects like this?
Don’t think too much and just do it. You will be personally enriched and rewarded many times over.
For more information, visit Empower Kids In Kenya
