Joseph Kariuki — Founder, Bawa Education CentreHear Joseph's story and why he founded Bawa to serve Dandora's children.
Joseph Kariuki — Founder, Bawa Education CentreHear Joseph's story and why he founded Bawa to serve Dandora's children.
Bawa is built on the shoulders of people who believe deeply in Dandora's children. Every teacher, coordinator, and team member brings extraordinary commitment to a school where the stakes are real.
Joseph Kariuki founded Bawa because he saw what too many in Dandora were willing to accept as inevitable — children growing up defined by poverty, without the tools or space to imagine something different.
Bawa was built not on pity, but on belief. The belief that every child in this community is full of promise and created with purpose. Joseph's vision extends far beyond a single school building — he is building a generation of community transformers.
"Your partnership makes it possible for us to continue walking with families, providing stability, and opening doors for the next generation."
Marcus Cannon is a follower of Jesus Christ, husband to Alyssa, and proud father of four children. His greatest passion is helping young people grow in faith, character, and purpose while building a strong foundation rooted in God’s truth. A graduate of Texas Christian University and a former NFL offensive lineman, Marcus learned through both success and hardship that true fulfillment is found in a relationship with Jesus Christ. His faith was especially strengthened during a battle with cancer early in his professional career, teaching him to trust God’s plan in every season of life. Marcus and Alyssa are committed to raising their family to love and serve the Lord, and they believe parents and educators play a vital role in shaping the next generation. Their desire is to see students grow academically, spiritually, and personally, becoming young men and women who honor God, serve others, and lead with integrity.
“Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it.” Proverbs 22:6
Everything we do is grounded in the Gospel — teaching children that they are loved, purposeful, and capable of more than their circumstances suggest.
We don't operate at arm's length from Dandora — we are Dandora. Our team lives here, our students are our neighbours, and our success is the community's success.
We reject pity-driven narratives. Our children are not defined by where they were born. They are bright, capable, and deserve every resource we can bring to them.
Whether you want to volunteer, join the team, or support us from afar — there is a place for you in this work.
