Celebrating 20 Years of Impact

Celebration is a great part of any progressive organisation and for Utulivu, this means the world in 2024. What was a mare dissertation project for the founding member, Cecily Mwaniki, 23 years ago remains evidence of how a simple idea combined with a dedicated team can positively impact lives. To meaningfully and impactfully celebrate this great milestone, each month until July (the actual date will be shared soonest when the celebration day is planned), we commit to sharing a short snippet about the 20-year journey. Utulivu’s exciting journey has been clear evidence that whenever we push ourselves to dream expansively, envision our organization one size bigger, and set goals beyond our comfort zone, growth becomes an effortless and inevitable outcome. It is indeed true that believing in the vision fuels inspiration while believing in people builds motivation—this has been the story of Utulivu Women.

If you are reading this Newsletter now, you probably understand the meaning of the word Utulivu. However, just in case it’s your first time and wondering about its meaning, Utulivu is a Swahili word that translates to ‘PATIENCE’. For Utulivu Women’s group, this is the story of empowering women, girls, the elderly, the youth and with the support of men. Empowering them to manage their health and well-being to fulfil their potential in line with the sustainable millennium goals. This is achieved through various events and activities that tackle essential aspects such as cultivating healthy family relationships, advancing career paths, promoting positive parenting, and addressing mental health, among other key areas. This has so far been achieved with patience hence, Utulivu Women.

Over the 20-year journey, we have seen those we support transform their lives in ways that positively impact their family members, friends, and those around them. Just to highlight a few examples, individuals have authored books, launched and grown businesses, excelled in their chosen careers—especially among the youth formation of partnerships, and the strengthening of families and communities stand out as noteworthy achievements.

Each month, you’ll have the opportunity to learn more about these experiences directly from those we’ve collaborated with. The culmination of this insightful journey will be marked by a celebratory conference in July.

Our shared values below guided us through the 20 years since we officially launched Utulivu and for 23 years since inception, the name Utulivu has been alive in our communities, households and to all those involved.