Walking Together in Mission
As I boarded my flight back to Kenya on 17 May 2026, my heart was filled with immense gratitude, hope, and inspiration. The three weeks I spent in Australia were far more than a work trip; they were a profound journey of connection, solidarity, friendship, learning, and transformation. I arrived in Australia representing the Ruben Centre, but I returned carrying countless stories of generosity, compassion, and shared mission.
Throughout my visit, I was continually reminded that although Australia and Kenya are separated by thousands of kilometres, we are united by something far greater—a common commitment to creating a more just and compassionate world for children, families, and communities experiencing disadvantage.
Our Director addressing more than 450 supporters during the 500 Supporters Group Luncheon
One of the most moving moments of my visit was attending the 500 Supporters Group Luncheon, where more than 450 people gathered in solidarity with the Ruben Centre. Standing before such a large gathering and sharing stories from Mukuru was both humbling and deeply emotional.
As I spoke about the impact of their support, I could see that the Ruben Centre was not simply a project they contributed to financially; it had become a cause they genuinely cared about. Their generosity has helped transform lives, restore dignity, provide education, healthcare, nutrition, and hope to countless families. Seeing so many people united around a shared purpose was a powerful reminder that meaningful change is possible when people choose to walk alongside one another.
Liz and a student proudly participating in the Walkathon during the Feast Day of Blessed Edmund Rice
My visit to St Bernard's College, Essendon, was truly unforgettable.
The opportunity to engage with both students and teachers around the concept of Sawubona—"I see you"—was incredibly special. What struck me most was how deeply the school community understands and lives this value.
Though separated by continents, cultures, and circumstances, the students and staff genuinely see the children and families of Ruben Centre. They see their struggles, their dreams, their resilience, and their potential. More importantly, they choose to act.
As I reflected on the immense contribution the school has made over many years, I was overwhelmed by the knowledge that countless children in Mukuru have experienced opportunities they might never have had because a school community in Australia chose to care.
Participating in the walkathon was another highlight. Walking alongside students and teachers while proudly carrying the Kenyan flag was a deeply symbolic moment. It represented unity, solidarity, and a shared commitment to ensuring that every child, regardless of where they are born, has the opportunity to thrive.
That day reminded me that true partnership is not measured by distance but by the depth of human connection.
(L-R) Paywise group, Liz Mwangi, Bildgroup, Bev Watkinson and Br. Frank O’shea
My visits to BildGroup and Paywise provided a wonderful opportunity to reconnect with two organisations that have faithfully supported the Ruben Centre over many years.
Meeting staff members, sharing stories from Mukuru, and demonstrating the tangible impact of their contributions was both encouraging and affirming. I was inspired by the genuine interest employees showed and their desire to understand how their support changes lives.
I also had the privilege of encouraging staff to participate in immersion experiences in Kenya. There is something profoundly transformative about witnessing the reality of Mukuru firsthand—seeing not only the challenges but also the resilience, strength, and hope that exist within the community.
Beyond the presentations and meetings, I greatly enjoyed spending time with individual staff members, hearing their stories, and learning about their own journeys. These personal connections reminded me that partnerships flourish not because of organisations alone, but because of people.
One of the greatest gifts of this visit was experiencing the warmth and hospitality of people who have become part of the Ruben Centre family.
Liz Mwangi, Br. Frank, and Bev Watkinson alongside Steve Graham’s family
My visit to Steve Graham's family was especially memorable. What a delightful day it was. Sharing a lovingly prepared meal, stories, laughter, and friendship reinforced something I have long believed—that the Ruben Centre's story is ultimately about relationships.
For many years, Steve and his family have walked alongside Ruben Centre with unwavering commitment. Spending time together felt less like visiting supporters and more like reconnecting with extended family.
Their generosity and kindness reflected the spirit I encountered throughout Australia.
My journey then took me to Sydney, where I had the privilege of speaking at a Principals' Dinner.
This gathering provided an important opportunity to share the Ruben Centre story and highlight the remarkable impact of Parent Support Schemes and school partnerships. It was inspiring to engage with educational leaders who recognise the important role schools can play in creating positive social change.
I was reminded that education is one of the most powerful tools for transforming lives and communities. Through their support, these schools are helping create opportunities for children and families that extend far beyond the classroom.
Another significant highlight of my journey was visiting Waverley College and St Patrick's College, Strathfield, where I had the privilege of engaging with students and staff about social justice, global citizenship, and the work of the Ruben Centre.
These visits provided meaningful opportunities to share the realities, challenges, and hopes of the Mukuru community while exploring how young people can become active participants in creating a more just and compassionate world. I was deeply encouraged by the students' curiosity, thoughtful questions, and genuine concern for issues affecting children and families living in vulnerable communities.
Brisbane offered another meaningful chapter of the journey.
I enjoyed connecting with colleagues at the Brisbane office and strengthening relationships that are so important to our shared mission.
A particularly significant opportunity was serving as guest speaker at the EREA Business Managers Dinner. As key decision-makers influencing school philanthropy and community engagement, the business managers play a crucial role in shaping future support for organisations like Ruben Centre.
Sharing the impact of Ruben Centre's work and inviting them to participate in immersion experiences allowed me to showcase not only the challenges faced by our community but also the extraordinary potential that exists when people choose to stand in solidarity with those on the margins.
The response was encouraging and reaffirmed the strength of our growing partnerships.
Some of the most enriching moments of the visit happened away from formal gatherings and presentations.
Private meetings with donors created space for deeper conversations about leadership, vision, challenges, and aspirations. These discussions allowed me to share more personally about my new role, the opportunities and complexities that come with leadership, and my hopes for the future of Ruben Centre.
I was deeply encouraged by their wisdom, insights, belief, and ongoing commitment. These conversations reminded me that effective partnerships are built on trust, openness, and shared purpose.
Liz Mwangi alongside Ed Phelan and family
One of the most breathtaking experiences of the trip was the dinner cruise on the Brisbane River hosted by Ed Phelan and family, together with ERFA staff and friends.As we cruised along the river surrounded by beautiful city lights, I found myself reflecting on the many blessings of the journey. It was a moment filled with gratitude, joy, friendship, and appreciation. The evening celebrated not just what has been achieved but the relationships that have made those achievements possible.
I was also deeply grateful for the time spent with Bev and Br. Frank, both of whom have been such important supporters and companions of the Ruben Centre journey over many years. Their friendship, encouragement, and commitment continue to inspire me.
While much of the visit focused on strengthening partnerships and advancing the mission of Ruben Centre, I was also blessed with opportunities to experience Australia itself.
I enjoyed exploring the vibrant city of Melbourne, experiencing its culture, energy, and beauty. I spent time in Brisbane enjoying the city's warmth and attractions, including a memorable visit to the zoo and Tangalooma Island..
These moments provided welcome opportunities for rest, reflection, and appreciation of the remarkable country I was privileged to visit.
As I reflect on my time in Australia, one word continues to come to mind: gratitude.
Gratitude for every supporter, donor, volunteer, educator, business leader, family, and friend who continues to walk alongside the Ruben Centre.
Gratitude for the generosity that I witnessed firsthand.
Gratitude for the friendships that have grown into family.
Gratitude for the unwavering belief in the dignity, potential, and future of the children and families we serve.
This visit reminded me that the Ruben Centre story does not belong to one community alone. It is a shared story. A story of partnership. A story of solidarity. A story of hope.
Most importantly, it reminded me that when people choose to walk together in mission, extraordinary things happen.
I left Australia inspired by what has been achieved, challenged to dream bigger, and transformed by the generosity, compassion, and love I encountered.
To everyone who welcomed me, encouraged me, supported me, and walked with me during this journey—thank you.
Together, we continue to transform lives.
Together, we continue to build hope.
Together, we continue to walk in mission.
Story by: Liz Mwangi
Edits: Ben Kagwima
