WHY WE
DO WHAT
WE DO
OUR
MISSION
To provide academic scholarships that educate, empower, and elevate children into future leaders.
OUR
VISION
To build a movement where every child has access to quality education and the tools to write their own future.
The word Heshima means "Respect" in Swahili.
We believe when we respect children's rights,
honor ourselves and value each other,
we ignite a ripple effect that empowers children to
rise up, shape their futures, and transform the world.
Respect
Leading by Example
Authenticity
Teamwork
Equity
OUR
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VALUES
OUR BIRTH
"Lex, get me out of this hell" is the sentence that led to the creation of I am Heshima (Heshima).
Our founder Lexis was volunteering at an institution that was supposed to protect vulnerable children but was, in fact, abusing them. This painful reality came to light when children confided in Lexis and asked for her help to escape.
After reuniting children with their families, their stories were unanimous: "The owners came recruiting our children, promising them a chance at an education they knew we could not afford." The institution exploited these families' poverty and their desire to give their children an education, using it as a tool for profit while subjecting the children to abuse.
That realization became the driving force behind I Am Heshima. We understood that the only way to truly protect children from a life of abuse was to give them the one thing that could lift them out of poverty and break the cycle: education.
We are here today because we believe that no child should suffer simply because they were born into circumstances beyond their control. Heshima isn’t just about offering a hand up—it’s about creating a world where children are agents of change in their own lives and have the tools to write their own future.
From those first desperate cries for help, Heshima was born—and today, we stand stronger than ever with a united stance: giving children the chance to live a full, happy life and to build the future leaders of tomorrow. Our children possess infinite potential. Through education, empowerment, and opportunity, we are not just changing lives—we are shaping a generation that will rise up, break barriers, and lead with strength, compassion, and purpose.
EDUCATE. EMPOWER & ELEVATE, together
I am HESHIMA. YOU are HESHIMA & WE are HESHIMA
MEET OUR
TEAM
MEMBERS OF THE BOARD
OUR THEORY OF CHANGE
Access to high-quality education, combined with a focus on a child’s well-being, is a globally recognized solution to breaking the cycle of poverty.
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EDUCATE
Through quality education, children gain opportunities to unlock their full potential and envision a future different from their present.
EMPOWER
With psychosocial support, they begin healing their childhood trauma and discover their voice.
With individualized academic strengthening, they develop ability and confidence.
ELEVATE
When mentored on personal and leadership development, they develop positive behavior, empathy and become forward-thinking leaders who can positively influence their communities and the world.
Children living in poverty need not only the academic opportunity, but also the support to thrive—emotionally, socially, and physically. When provided with these tools, children can envision and set new standards for their lives.
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"I love school. I learn new things, I have food and friends. I am happy! My teachers and Heshima love me"
Elizabeth ~ Heshima primary student. 6 years old
*Abandoned and left to die under a bridge, she was rescued at the tender age of 3. Taken in by her grandfather, Elizabeth is in school, which was never an option for her family. She went from mute and sad, to smiley and rose to the top of her class.
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© 2018-2025 I Am Heshima Org
CHARITY NUMBER: 75730 2898 RR0001