About POAK - Poverty Africa Kenya | Our Story, Team & Leadership

Our Story

POAK (Poverty Africa - Kenya) was founded on December 7th, 1997 by a group of community leaders who saw the urgent need to address poverty in their local communities. What started as a small grassroots initiative has grown into a recognized nonprofit organization serving communities across 8 counties in Kenya.

For over 28 years, we have remained true to our founding principle: that sustainable change comes from empowering communities to lead their own development. Our programs are designed and implemented with direct input from the people we serve.

Today, POAK has empowered over 5,000 Kenyans, reached 120+ communities, and established programs in youth digital skills, women's economic empowerment, maternal and child health, and mental health wellness.

Founded 7th December 1997 28+ Years of Service

Message from Our Co-founder

"When we started POAK in 1997, we had a simple belief: that poverty is not inevitable, but a challenge that can be overcome when communities come together. Today, after 28 years, I am prouder than ever of what we've accomplished together. We've seen women start businesses, youth find meaningful employment, mothers access healthcare, and communities take ownership of their development. But our work is far from done. Every day, we renew our commitment to creating a Kenya free from poverty."

Erick Muhindi

Co-founder

Mission & Vision

Our Mission

To alleviate all forms of poverty in Kenya and actively involve all sectors of society in achieving this goal, improving living standards for Kenyans.

Our Vision

A Kenya free from poverty where every individual has equal opportunities to thrive, with empowered communities driving their own sustainable development.

Core Values

Equity & Inclusion

Every Kenyan deserves equal opportunities regardless of background.

Community Empowerment

We place communities at the center of development.

Integrity & Accountability

We uphold transparency in all operations.

Partnership & Collaboration

We work with government, NGOs, and communities.

Sustainability

We promote long-term solutions to poverty.

Innovation & Learning

We embrace creative approaches to program effectiveness.

Board of Directors

Our dedicated board members guide our strategic direction and ensure accountability.

Senior Counsel Stephen Ligunya

Board Chairperson

Dr. Bernard Omwenga

Vice Chairperson

Mr. Nahashon Njoroge

Financial Expert/Advisor

Our Team

Meet the dedicated team making our mission a reality.

Luke Alela

Executive Director

Sheilla Muhindi

Programs Manager

Fidel Maina

Head of Monitoring & Evaluation

Marvin Kabuka

Field Programs Coordinator

Samuel otia

IT and Digital Marketing

Our Journey

1997

Founded

POAK established by community leaders in Nairobi

2005

First VSLA Group

Launched women's savings program with 25 women

2012

Expanded to 5 Counties

Grew programs to reach more communities

2020

Digital Skills Launch

Started youth digital skills training program