From Surviving to Serving: Our Founder's Story

“Coming from the slums taught me to value opportunity, because I know what life looks like without it. Today, I carry the story of every child who just needs one chance to change their future.”

Jacob H. Murunga

Founder, RCK

“I grew up in the heart of Kibera- the largest urban slum in Africa, where survival was, and still is, a daily struggle. Safety, food, and even dignity were luxuries I couldn’t afford. After school, I often asked classmates if I could join them at home for a meal or a place to rest. Some welcomed me. Many didn’t. Kindness had limits when everyone was barely getting by.

Hunger was constant. Illness was routine, a result of overcrowding and poor sanitation. And at times, drugs felt like an easy escape. Many of my friends gave in, but somehow, I kept going. Whether it was hope or sheer stubbornness, I believed life could be different.

That belief became real when I met a sponsor through a local organization. An individual who gave me a lifeline and the most enviable chance to stay in school and complete my education.

Today, as the founder of Root Cause Kwanza, I carry that story with me. Coming from the slums taught me to value opportunity, because I know what life looks like without it. Today, I carry the story of every child who just needs one chance to change their future.

Jacob H. Murunga
Founder, Root Cause Kwanza