What We Do

Why we use Ubuntu philosophy? — I am because We Are:

In Western philosophy, personal identity emphasizes individuality: “I am.”

But in African philosophy, the sense of self is shaped by relationships with other people. It’s a way of living that begins with the premise that “I am” only because “we are”. Ubuntu philosophy is what forms the foundation for Ugali Youth. In Ubuntu, we all dig deep into our human values and use the best of these to humanize all of us and bridge the gaps to unite our community.

Rene Descartes is often called the first modern philosopher, and his famous saying, “I think, therefore I am,” laid the groundwork for how we conceptualize our sense of self. But what if there’s an entirely different way to think about personal identity — a non-Western philosophy that rejects this emphasis on individuality?

Young people in Kenya today live in a world that is in transition.

Kenyan culture includes a history as a British protectorate and colony, followed by a time of political turmoil and unrest. Kenyan families have been the source of traditional guidance for young people, even arranging early marriages, throughout their history.

But in recent years, Kenyan traditions are being challenged. Modernization and urbanization are occurring rapidly and indigenous education is giving way to more Western education. Traditional indigenous education occurred slowly and continued into young adulthood. Now, as these sources of support erode, Kenyan youth face both poverty and social changes without adequate resources or mentors to help them manage the confusion they experience.

Ugali Youth works to help young people learn, grow to their potential, and manage the pressures that come with adjusting to rapid social change. The current socio-economic conditions in Africa also block the progress of these Kenyan youth. The goal of Ugali Youth is the holistic development of young people so that they reach their highest potential for personal, spiritual, social, and educational gains.

You can help youth in Kenya bridge the two worlds that tug at them. And, by recognizing and sharing the blessings you enjoy, you may have a life-changing experience. It is our prayer that this mutual relationship will lead to something greater and bigger than ourselves.

Ugali believes that the world is full of good people, if you can’t find one, be one.