Theory of Change
The winds of change are blowing at Ruben Centre, and as the saying goes, “Change is the only constant in life.” Our third Centre meeting of the year was more than just a routine gathering—it was a defining moment that left every staff member reflecting on the past, present, and future of our beloved institution.
As always, the meeting brought together our program coordinators and leadership team, but this time, we had special guests in our midst—the Board of Trustees of Ruben Centre. Their presence added an air of anticipation, as everyone wondered what announcement was in store. True to form, the board did not disappoint.
After a warm welcome from Board Chair Zipporah Mwangi, she commended the incredible work happening across our various projects.
The gathering served two primary purposes- The first time for a public announcement around who actually is responsible, at this time, for the governance of Ruben. We learn that since late 2023, the Centre is legally a Trust known as Christian Brothers Ruben Centre Trust. The Chair indicated that their responsibilities include the appointment of the Director.
The occasion enabled the key project leaders to be introduced to the four trustees in attendance and to briefly hear from them and to know their expertise and their particular responsibilities. (two trustees were absent)
The Chair assured the Administration team and project leaders that they have their full confidence and that going forward governance and Administration need to work closely together to ensure the ongoing success of the Centre.
In attendance also was Edmund Rice Foundation Kenya leader and the director was asked to detail the role of this office. He stressed that primary role of the ERFK office is capacity building for ERF projects in Kenya and given the reality that Ruben Centre is easily the biggest ERF project, it is therefore not surprising that various ERFK team members are often at Ruben offering a variety of support in different administration areas. An example is the ongoing secondment of one of their accountants to Ruben for this current six-month period.
Then came the big reveal—our Director, Br. Frank, will be leaving for Australia on April 24th and will return in mid-June. The year 2025 is Ruben’s silver Jubilee year and he is being asked to talk this up and raise badly needed funds over there. In his absence, Elizabeth Mwangi, a dedicated leader from the Edmund Rice Foundation Kenya (ERFK) and a key figure in Ruben’s Trustee team, will step in as Interim Director.
A hush fell over the room as the news sank in. Some changes come expectedly, but others, like this one, remind us that the only way to make sense of change is to plunge into it, move with it, and join the dance. Br. Frank’s departure, albeit temporary, marks a significant transition for Ruben Centre, and staff were left contemplating what the coming months would bring. With change in the air, Br. Frank took the opportunity to guide us through a thought-provoking discussion on a Theory of Change framework
The framework is circular with has three key concepts: Learn, Unlearn, and Relearn.
Learning involves drawing wisdom from past experiences, like reflecting on the achievements of our 2021-2025 strategic plan.
Unlearning is about letting go of outdated assumptions, biases, and attitudes to make space for new growth.
Relearning encourages adaptability, allowing us to embrace fresh perspectives and new ways of thinking.
Br. Frank then posed a powerful question:
"How can this Theory of Change help us improve, grow, and achieve our Vision and Mission?"
As discussions unfolded, it became clear that this transition period is not just about a change in leadership—it’s about embracing a new era of growth, transformation, and renewed purpose, and by the end of 2025 all this will be captured in a new 5 – year Strategic plan 2026-2030. The room echoed with a collective realization: the Theory of Change is not just a philosophy—it is a call to action.
Other Matters for the Administration Team
Change is only meaningful when it is grounded in strong structures. To this end, the HR Manager took us through Ruben Centre’s HR Manual, and he guided the team through all the updates he has made in recent times to ensure the HR manual is relevant and up to date. a guiding document that defines policies, procedures, and staff roles. It serves as a compass, helping employees navigate decision-making and professional growth.
On the digital front, the IT Manager shared ambitious plans for the Jubilee Year, focusing on increasing the visibility of Ruben Centre’s impact. One key strategy will be the creation of short, compelling impact stories that highlight the transformation taking place in our community. After all, a story well told is a mission well understood.
Meanwhile, the Operations Manager reported that the Efficiency Team is thriving, and Quarter 1 Monitoring & Evaluation indicator trackers have already been dispatched for reporting.
The Deputy Headteacher provided insights into the school’s progress, announcing that Ruben Centre’s educational arm is now officially known as AEF Comprehensive School, covering ECDE, Primary, and Junior School. The school recently closed for the holidays, but learning never stops at Ruben Centre. A mentorship program will run during the break to continue shaping young minds.
In vocational training, the Hairdressing Unit is gearing up for an exciting milestone—18 students will be sitting for their NITA exams on Monday, a testament to their hard work and the dedication of our trainers.
As the meeting drew to a close, we were left pondering one final question: What comes next for the 2026-2030 strategic plan? With a leadership transition underway, a growing commitment to innovation, and a team ready to unlearn in order to relearn - : the future is bright.
Ruben Centre has always been a beacon of hope, a place where challenges turn into opportunities, and change is embraced as a stepping stone to greater things. As we step into this new chapter, we do so with confidence, resilience, and the shared belief that the best is yet to come.
Story by Benson Kagwima