As I reflect on the past 10 years of Clean Start Africa, I see a remarkable journey of restoration, hope, and transformation for children, youth, families, and formerly incarcerated individuals. These years have been a powerful reminder that every person deserves dignity, a second chance, and a community that believes in their potential.

Being part of the Children and Youth Program has especially shown me the importance of creating safe spaces where young people affected by incarceration can heal, grow, and dream again. Through initiatives such as the Nexus Youth Program and the Kikao support group meetings, I have witnessed firsthand the impact of walking alongside children and young people as they navigate childhood trauma, rebuild their confidence, and rediscover their sense of purpose.

Clean Start Africa has been a beacon of transformative hope, creating opportunities through skills development, mentorship, and scholarship programs that offer a second chance to children and youth who once felt hopeless and unable to see a brighter future. The organization has also invested in strengthening leadership among children and youth while building capacity in mental health support, enabling many to embark on meaningful trauma-healing journeys.

Some of the moments that stand out most for me are witnessing children and young people confidently share their stories and begin to redefine their identities beyond stigma and exclusion. Seeing families reconnect, young people embrace mentorship, and communities become more open to restoration has been deeply fulfilling and inspiring.

One of the challenges throughout this journey has been witnessing the pain, trauma, and gaps in support that many children and families continue to face. There have been times when resources were limited, needs were overwhelming, and progress felt slow. Yet these experiences have strengthened my understanding of resilience, compassion, and the importance of remaining committed even during difficult seasons.

As we look toward the next decade, I am hopeful and excited about the opportunity to strengthen family systems, expand safeguarding and mental health support, amplify youth voices, and build sustainable partnerships that create lasting impact. I look forward to seeing even more young people rise as leaders, advocates, and changemakers within their communities, shaping a future defined by hope, dignity, and opportunity for all.

Janet Irungu – Children & Youth Lead