(MuYI) is a community art-based organization focused on impacting the Mukuru community and building a community of young change makers. MuYI focuses on four strategic objectives: Art for Expression, Social Enterprise, Civic Engagement, and Climate Justice. We use art to raise awareness about proper hygiene and sanitation practices and we have been instrumental in raising awareness about COVID-19 in the settlement.

MuYI was established in 2015 as a long-term platform to address the issues affecting the community, building on the success of the Mukuru Awards. The Mukuru Awards were created as a platform for young people in the Mukuru community to showcase their talents and address the issues affecting their community. The success of the awards led to the creation of the Mukuru Youth Initiative (MuYI) in 2015, which operates as a long-term platform for youth engagement and empowerment.

Mukuru informal settlement is a large slum in the East of Nairobi, Kenya, located between the Outer Ring Road, the North Airport Road, and Mombasa Road. The settlement stretches along the Nairobi Ngong river and is situated on waste land in the industrial area of the city. It is made up of several villages, including Mukuru kwa Reuben, Mukuru kwa Njenga, Sinai, Paradise, Jamaica, Kingstone, Lunga Lunga, Mariguini, Fuata Nyayo and Kayaba. The population of the slum is estimated to be over 700,000.

Vision

Our vision is a community that is free from social vices and youths who are focused on seeing the community develop both socially and economically.

Mission

To nourish the seeds of knowledge, art and innovation within the hearts of the youth, being a thriving tree, shading all cultures of our community, and eventually bear the fruits of a unified, developed and successful community.

Our Objective

1. To use art as a tool for expression and communication of social issues affecting the community.
2. To promote and support social enterprise development among the youth in the community.
3. To encourage civic engagement and participation among the youth in community development initiatives.
4. To raise awareness and advocate for climate justice in the community.
5. To empower the youth to become agents of change and leaders within the community.
6. To foster a sense of community and belonging among the youth in Mukuru informal settlement.
7. To create a platform for the youth to showcase their talents and ideas, and to be recognized for their efforts.
8. To provide training and mentorship opportunities for the youth to enhance their skills and abilities.
9. To support the youth to develop and implement sustainable community development projects.
10. To create an enabling environment for the youth to access opportunities for personal and professional growth.

Youth as change makers

Our mission is to empower the youth of the Mukuru community to be proactive agents of change, equipped with the skills, resources, and opportunities necessary to drive community development and advocate for social and environmental justice.

Key Activities:

1. Music Showcases: Organize regular music showcases to provide a platform for youth to express themselves artistically and showcase their talents. These events not only serve as avenues for artistic expression but also foster community cohesion and pride in local talent.
2. Campaigns focused on Climate and Governance: Launch campaigns addressing climate change and governance issues to raise awareness and inspire action among the youth. Through education and advocacy, we aim to empower young people to become informed citizens and advocates for positive change.
3. Community Forums: Facilitate community forums where residents can openly discuss pressing issues, share ideas, and collaborate on solutions. These forums serve as inclusive spaces for dialogue, fostering a sense of community ownership and collective responsibility.
4. Youth Engagements through Arts: Offer workshops and training sessions in various art forms, providing youth with creative outlets to express themselves and develop their talents. Through art, we aim to cultivate self-expression, confidence, and resilience among young people.
5. Weekly Discussion (Coffee Bar): Establish a weekly discussion forum at a local coffee bar to facilitate informal conversations on topics relevant to community development and social issues. These discussions provide opportunities for networking, mentorship, and mutual support among youth.
6. Music Production at our Studio: Provide access to a fully equipped music studio for youth interested in music production. Through mentorship and training programs, we aim to nurture the next generation of musicians and producers while promoting creativity and innovation.
7. Filming and Photography: Conduct workshops and training sessions in filmmaking and photography, empowering youth to tell their stories and advocate for social change through visual media. These activities encourage creativity, critical thinking, and communication skills.
8. Board Games at our Hub: Create a welcoming space at our hub for youth to engage in recreational activities such as board games. These activities promote social interaction, teamwork, and problem-solving skills while providing a safe and inclusive environment for youth to connect.
9. Dance Rehearsals: Organize dance rehearsals and choreography workshops to provide opportunities for youth to explore their creativity and express themselves through movement. Dance activities promote physical health, self-expression, and cultural appreciation.
10. Talent Development: Implement talent development programs to identify and support youth in realizing their full potential. Through mentorship, training, and access to resources, we aim to empower youth to pursue their passions and achieve their goals.

Through these key activities, we seek to foster a sense of agency, resilience, and community ownership among the youth of Mukuru, ultimately contributing to the development of a thriving and sustainable community.