Kushamiri Africa Foundation (USA) operates through its country affiliate partner, KnowledgeRise Africa Initiative, an African-led movement advancing education, menstrual dignity, and youth leadership across underserved communities.
Together, we work to break barriers, restore confidence, and create opportunities for Africa’s next generation. Through community-driven programs, mentorship, and access to essential resources, we empower girls and young people to learn, lead, and thrive.
We envision a future where no girl misses school because of period poverty, where knowledge unlocks opportunity, and where every young person has the support, skills, and confidence to transform their community and shape a brighter future.
Mengisen Terevael Massawe (Menny Terry) is the Founder, Director, and Visionary behind Kushamiri Africa Foundation. He holds a Master of Divinity in Organizational Leadership (Magna Cum Laude) and a bachelor’s in accountancy, with strong experience in finance and leadership. His work tackles period poverty, girls’ school absenteeism, and youth unemployment through sustainable, African‑led solutions. Despite opportunities abroad, he chose to return to Africa, believing that Africa’s problems will be solved by Africans. His mission centers on dignity, local leadership, and unlocking the potential already present in African communities.
Kushamiri is a Swahili word meaning “to thrive.” It reflects our vision of empowering adolescent girls in Kenya with the tools, knowledge, and support they need to overcome period poverty, stay in school uninterrupted, and unlock their full potential.
Kushamiri Africa Foundation was founded on the belief that every girl and young person deserves the opportunity to thrive. We work to remove barriers to education and opportunity through four interconnected pillars:
Opening minds. Building futures.
Promoting menstrual health and well-being.
Building confident leaders and changemakers.
Creating pathways to sustainable livelihoods.
A future where every girl and young person thrives with dignity, opportunity, and the confidence to shape their future.
To empower girls and young people through education, menstrual health, leadership, and economic opportunities, enabling them to thrive and transform their communities.
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Working with Kushamiri Africa Foundation has transformed our school. Their support keeps girls in class who would otherwise be forced into early marriages. They’re not just changing lives—they’re changing communities.
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"Before Kushamiri, I was too shy to ask questions about my period. Now I understand my body, feel confident, and never miss school because of fear." — Student
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"Being a Peer Educator with Kushamiri has shown me that changing a girl's life takes more than giving her a menstrual kit. Through education, mentorship, and safe conversations, I've seen girls become more confident and believe in themselves." — Peer Educator
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"Kushamiri gave me the opportunity to mentor girls in my community. Seeing them gain knowledge, confidence, and hope has been the most rewarding experience." — Peer Educator
