Who We Are

A community-based organization driven by a mission to empower youth, girls, and marginalized communities through education, sports, technology, and environmental action. Simama CBO was born out of a deep desire to break the cycle of poverty, violence, and hopelessness faced by youth in Kariobangi and neighboring informal settlements. In 2015, a group of passionate young people came together,united by their shared experiences and a bold vision to create a safe space where youth could discover their potential, speak out, and stand tall.

That vision gave birth to Simama, which means “stand up” in Swahili. What started as a small neighborhood football league quickly grew into something greater. We realized that young people needed more than just a ball—they needed mentorship, life skills, and opportunities to dream beyond the limitations of their environment. So, we expanded. We began offering training in leadership, coaching, first aid, peacebuilding, arts, and creative expression. We created platforms for youth to lead community dialogues, express themselves through music and poetry, and take part in positive social change. Over the years, Simama has impacted hundreds of lives. From training peer educators and community coaches to advocating for mental health and HIV/AIDS awareness, our work has grown deeper and more diverse.

Live’s We’ve Impacted