M2YG

UpToYouToo’s first support was handed to the M2YG youth group in 2001. M2YG’s 25 members came from one of the most problematic slums in Nairobi; Mathare. A neighbourhood often seen in the news due to its violent outbursts and police brutality.
A charity party raised enough money for the group to invest in a small passenger vehicle, a chicken run, a vegetable garden and a small tea and breakfast joint.

The group projects lasted two years but internal differences and problems in managing the projects got the upperhand and M2YG split up. Several new groups were started by the old members. Some of the members are still in contact with us and a few still receive support.

The successes (yes, there were some) but especially the problems were the inspiration to set up our local partner, Youth Initiatives Kenya (YIKE). YIKE currently works with 26 youth groups and focuses on training the groups in managing their group and communal projects.