LG Electronics has today handed over complete projects to three social groups from Nairobi, Kiambu and Makueni counties seeking to solve their community’s most pressing needs.
The three, Vonde Welfare, Kenya Women and Children Centre, and Little Voice Deep Within emerged as the winners of the highly anticipated LG Electronics Ambassador Challenge for the year 2023, each walking away with Kes 1 million.
The challenge, a prestigious initiative aimed at promoting the growth and self-reliance of local communities attracted 52 applicants from various regions across the country.
Giving his remarks during the handover ceremony, LG Electronics EA Managing Director Dong Won Lee said, through this initiative, LG aims to empower social groups to create sustainable change and foster self-reliance within their respective communities.
“We are thrilled to witness the fruition of the LG Electronics Ambassador Challenge as we hand over the completed projects to Vonde Welfare, Kenya Women and Children Centre, and Little Voice Deep Within. LG believes in the power of technology to transform lives and communities for the better. Through this initiative, we aim to empower these organizations to create sustainable change and foster self-reliance within their respective communities”.
Following the handover, Vonde Welfare received eighty, 5,000-litre water tanks that will offer a quick solution to water challenges facing Makueni residents from the Vonde area in Mbooni Sub-County. Currently, the area is characterized by inadequate rainfalls, hills and a very hot environment. The residents use the seasonal streams down the hills which are 5 kilometers from the village. When they find the water, they carry it on their backs since there are no donkeys or camels in the area.
“We extend our heartfelt thanks to LG Electronics and their commitment to making a tangible difference in our community. These tanks will serve as a lifeline for the residents of Vonde who have been grappling with water scarcity due to inadequate rainfall and a challenging environment. With these tanks, we can offer a quick and convenient solution to the water challenges our community faces. No longer will our villagers have to travel long distances and carry water on their backs. This contribution will significantly improve the quality of life for our residents and bring much-needed relief”. Said James Kalulu Muthoka, Vonde Welfare representative.
The second group, Kenya Women and Children Centre which focuses on elevating the rising cases of Gender-based Violence in the country by educating the public on how to respond and prevent the illness received refrigerators, microwaves, and televisions for use at their already-built facility.
In her keynote speech, Judy Nzioki, Kenya Women and Children Centre representative said they’ll use the well well-equipped facility to provide comprehensive training programs that empower individuals with the knowledge and skills to combat Gender-based Violence effectively.
“Receive our sincere gratitude for your commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of women and children in Kenya. As an organization dedicated to addressing the alarming issue of Gender-based Violence in our country, these resources will significantly enhance our efforts to educate the public on how to respond to and prevent this adversity”. Said Nzioki
Similarly, the Little Voice Deep within social group expressed their gratitude for being part of the finalist, noting that they will use the funds to set up a digital library and accommodate more students, especially during the holiday. Currently, the group has set up their library in the chairman’s house where children meet weekly for studying, dance and other artworks. The beneficiaries are children from Kariobangi slums who either are in school or have graduated from high school and would wish to advance their artistic levels. The group which plays host to over 300 children monthly received curriculum books, revision books, story books, and laptops to help enhance knowledge access.
Speaking during the handover Ceremony, Little Voice Deep Within representative Erick Wiclife Odhiambo said, with this support, the group will provide a dedicated space for learning and artistic advancement, empowering the children from our community to explore their talents and pursue their educational aspirations
“We are incredibly grateful to LG Electronics for selecting Little Voice Deep Within as a finalist and providing us with the funds to set up a digital library. This support will enable us to expand our reach and accommodate more students, particularly during the holidays. With the establishment of a digital library, we can offer an enhanced learning experience and empower these talented young individuals to advance their artistic abilities” said Erick Wiclife Odhiambo.
Over the last 3 years, LG Electronics in partnership with Korea Food for the Hungry International (KFHI) have been instrumental in ensuring the success of the LG Electronics Ambassador Challenge. Their expertise and support have played a crucial role in identifying deserving organizations that align with the goals and values of LG Electronics.
Last year, three groups from Nairobi, Kiambu, and Kajiado counties won the challenge.