Jamey Ponte is a curator, muralist, graphic designer, performance/visual artist creating social justice messages in art experiences and the visionary leader of the new Kibera Arts District and House of Friends (HOF) Gallery Kibera in Kenya. Ponte recently engaged with students at Creative Canvassing in a powerful discussion about HOF, a life-changing initiative that originated from the Child Wellness Fund’s work in East Africa. The initiative was born in Kibera, one of the largest urban slums in Nairobi, Kenya, where Ponte and his team discovered themselves not only providing care and support for local children but also hosting volunteers from around the world.

Kibera, located in Nairobi, Kenya, is one of Africa’s largest informal settlements, with a population ranging between 250,000 and 500,000 residents. The area is characterized by overcrowded housing, limited infrastructure, and inadequate access to clean water, sanitation, and healthcare. Many residents live in small, makeshift homes made of mud and tin, and rely on informal power connections and communal water sources. Unemployment is high, with most people working in the informal sector. Despite these challenges, Kibera is known for its strong sense of community, with numerous grassroots organizations providing education, healthcare, and support to residents. Efforts from both NGOs and the government have led to incremental improvements in sanitation and public health, but the area remains emblematic of urban poverty, resilience, and community spirit.

HOF began as a response to the growing number of international volunteers who were seeking meaningful ways to connect with the Kibera community. Ponte and his team transformed their humble home into a hostel-type space, welcoming outsiders who were eager to make a difference. HOF offers a gateway into the heart of the community. It’s a place where visitors can learn about the complexities of life in Kibera, while also contributing to ongoing efforts that support child wellness, education, and empowerment. For local youth, HOF is an invaluable resource. It serves as a mentorship center where young people from the Kibera community can access guidance on real-life challenges. From career advice to personal development, the initiative is designed to help these youths navigate the obstacles they face, grow in their self-confidence, and become respected and contributing members of society.

Ponte shared stories of young people whose lives have been transformed by the initiative, highlighting the power of mentorship and community support. He emphasized the importance of providing not just financial aid but also emotional and intellectual tools that help youth realize their potential. In speaking to the students, Ponte made it clear that HOF is not just about charity; it’s about empowerment and sustainability. His message resonated with many in the audience, particularly those who are interested in social justice, international development, and community-building initiatives.

As Ponte continues to expand the reach of HOF, including a space located in College Hill and the involvement of their children in this year’s SOS ART Youth Exhibition, the impact it has on both volunteers and locals is evident. It stands as a testament to the power of collective action, where people from different walks of life come together to create lasting change. Through his words, Ponte encouraged students to think about their role in this global mission, challenging them to find ways to connect, support, and uplift others—whether at home or across the world.