Raphael Okumu (2010, Kenya)

2010 iLEAP International Faculty
Tears Group Kenya
raphael@iLEAP.org
Download Raphael's Profile

 

Organization

Tears Group Kenya is a community and youth based organization consisting of artists using their creative arts talents to empower and create awareness among the youth in Kenya. Tears stands for "Theatre for Enhancement and Acceleration of Researched Solutions" and symbolizes the struggles by Kenyan youth for development. Established in 1998 by nine individuals, including Raphael, Tears Group Kenya began as a means to empower and enhance creativity among at-risk youth. The organization has been involved in creative performances in schools, communities and workplaces promoting reproductive health and civic engagement. Recently, Tears established a development and empowerment village on self-reliance and life-skills for Kenyan youth.

Raphael's Work

As one of the founders of Tears, Raphael has orchestrated many projects, some involving over 500 students, in the areas of environmental conservation, ecology, citizenship, and the performing arts. Raphael has fundraised and managed different youth projects funded by development partners like USAID, Global Fund, CDC, World Bank, Hewlett-Packard, and the United Nations. Raphael has also worked as a consultant for other local organizations involved in youth empowerment and community mobilization.

"Participation in the International Fellowship program will enable me to develop, enhance, as well as share my leadership skills, and I look forward to my experience with the other Fellows."

Raphael joins the iLEAP Fellowship as a grantee of Pangea, an international giving circle that supports grassroots community development in the Global South and creates direct learning experiences for engaged donors. Pangea is based in Seattle.