Behind the Build
At Ujenzi Foundation, we believe that all young people can embrace their potential, define their future, and positively impact the world.
ourvision
Ujenzi Foundation exists to support young people by expanding access to practical skills, digital literacy, and meaningful pathways to education, employment, and entrepreneurship. We center youth voice and lived experience while working alongside communities to design programs that are relevant, hands on, and rooted in local context. Through training, mentorship, and cross cultural collaboration, we help young people build confidence, capability, and opportunity to shape their own futures.
ourmission
We envision a future where young people across coastal Kenya and beyond are equipped with the skills, resources, and support needed to thrive in a changing world. By 2030, Ujenzi Foundation aims to contribute to inclusive economic growth and workforce readiness aligned with Kenya’s Vision 2030 by strengthening local capacity, expanding access to training and technology, and elevating youth leadership as a driving force for sustainable progress.
OURSTORY
Ujenzi Foundation grew from relationships, not a blueprint. In 2025, a trip to Kenya deepened our connection to the people and communities along the coast and made something clear, young people were eager to learn, build skills, and shape their own futures, but too often lacked access to the tools and opportunities to do so. Through conversations with youth, families, educators, and local leaders, we saw both the challenges and the incredible potential that already existed.
What started as listening turned into action. Inspired by the creativity, resilience, and leadership we witnessed, Ujenzi Foundation was created to support youth led, community driven programs that reflect real needs and lived experiences. Grounded in cross cultural relationships between Kenya and the United States, our work continues to grow through trust, collaboration, and a shared belief that when young people are supported, entire communities move forward together.
POWER TEAM
Carson Sobchuk
Carson Sobchuk is a youth leader and co founder of Ujenzi Foundation who is passionate about creating opportunities for young people through skills training and cross cultural connection. A high school student with a strong academic focus, Carson is actively involved in math club, track, and swimming. His experiences in Kenya and commitment to youth voice have shaped his belief that young people play a vital role in designing meaningful programs. Through Ujenzi Foundation, Carson helps amplify youth perspectives and build pathways that connect learning, leadership, and community.
Megan Sobchuk
Megan Sobchuk is a co founder of Ujenzi Foundation and an educator and nonprofit leader with a deep commitment to youth development and community driven solutions. With experience in education, workforce programs, and cross cultural partnerships, Megan brings a relationship centered approach to building opportunity. Her connection to Kenya and belief in youth led change guide Ujenzi Foundation’s mission to expand access to skills, learning, and pathways that support young people and the communities around them.
Khamis Zahran
Khamis Zahran is the Kenya Program Advisor for Ujenzi Foundation and a trusted community leader with deep roots along the Kenyan coast. With strong local relationships and a passion for youth empowerment, Khamis provides guidance that ensures Ujenzi’s programs are culturally grounded, community informed, and responsive to local needs. His leadership helps bridge local insight with cross cultural collaboration, strengthening programs that support young people and community growth.