Introducing Mayamiko
Kenyawi Kids has supported the establishment of a new childcare facility called ‘Mayamiko’ in Blantyre, Malawi. It is important to note that every child at Mayamiko has their own unique story and background, which is why we avoid using the term “orphanage”. We find this label oversimplifies their experience and can carry negative connotations. While some of our children are orphans, many have families who, due to illness, age, or financial hardships, are unable to care for them. Others have come to us from situations of abuse, neglect or abandonment. These varied circumstances highlight the complexity of the challenges they face, far beyond the label of “orphan”. At Mayamiko, we honour and respect each child’s background, providing them with not just a home, but a family where they are loved, supported, and empowered to succeed.
Mayamiko website under construction
Mayamiko is led by volunteer Director Shaheena Omar, 5 nannies, 2 guards, 2 gardeners, a manager and an assistant. Mayamiko works directly with the Ministry of Social Welfare to support vulnerable children who have either lost both parents, a parent, experienced physical and mental abuse, or have been abandoned from their families. Together with Mayamiko volunteers and staff, we believe that every child deserves a chance to reach their full potential, regardless of their background or circumstances. There are currently over 40 children living very happily at the house aged 6 weeks to 17 years.
Mayamiko offer a range of programs designed to meet the unique needs of the children under its care, including education, healthcare, and vocational training. The team of experienced professionals provide personalised attention and support to each child, ensuring that they receive the care and guidance they need to succeed.
At Mayamiko Child Care Centre, we are committed to providing a safe haven for some of the most vulnerable children in Blantyre, Malawi. As an emergency centre, we work closely with the Ministry of Social Welfare to ensure that every child who comes through our door receives the care and attention they deserve.
How can you get involved?
Our current development efforts are focused on a vital goal: raising the funds needed to purchase the property where Mayamiko Child Care Centre is located. At the moment, the organisation is renting the property, which takes a significant portion of their monthly budget and limits their ability to make necessary changes to better accommodate the children. By purchasing the property, Mayamiko would gain the freedom to make crucial renovations that would greatly enhance the living conditions and overall experience for the children.
Initial plans include expanding the building to add more bedrooms, an office, a playground, and volunteer housing. Owning the property would also give them much greater flexibility for future developments, such as increasing their capacity to care for older children on-site.
Cost breakdown:
- Purchasing price = £60,000
- Renovations = £20,000
- Total = £80,000
Securing this property is not just about the immediate improvements—it’s about laying the foundation for the future of Mayamiko. By investing in this home, we can ensure that Mayamiko can continue to provide the best possible care for the children they serve and expand our ability to support more children in need. Your support in this endeavour will have a lasting impact on the lives of the current, and future, children at Mayamiko for years to come.
Work with us to fundraise £80,000 to make a house a home for children in Malawi.
email kenyawikidsinfo@gmail.com today
https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/mayamiko
Fundraising and donation
- At Mayamiko, we depend entirely on charitable donations and the generosity of our supporters to continue our work. These donations fund the monthly running costs and maintenance of the house, school fees, and development projects.
- We are deeply grateful for the kindness of those who contribute to our mission. Visit our fundraising page to learn more about our exciting new projects and consider making a donation – every little bit helps and makes a big difference in the lives of the children at Mayamiko.
Our mission and vision– in depth
Mission Statement: At Mayamiko Child Care Centre, our mission is to empower vulnerable children in Blantyre, Malawi, to overcome adversity and realise their full potential. We are committed to providing comprehensive support, including education, healthcare, and vocational training, to children who have faced the loss of parents, physical and mental abuse, or economic abandonment by their families.
Vision: Our vision is to create a nurturing and inclusive environment where every child, regardless of their background or circumstances, can thrive and grow into confident, self-reliant individuals who contribute positively to society. We aim to be a beacon of hope for the children we serve, offering them the tools and opportunities they need to build a brighter future.
Our Approach: Mayamiko Child Care Centre works collaboratively with the Ministry of Social Welfare as an emergency shelter and safe home to identify and assist vulnerable children in need within our community. Our approach is rooted in the belief that every child deserves a happy childhood and a chance to reach their full potential. To achieve this, we provide:
- Education: We offer quality education programs that cater to the unique needs of each child, helping them develop academically and intellectually.
- Healthcare:Ensuring the well-being of our children is paramount. We provide access to healthcare services and promote healthy living habits.
- Vocational Training: We equip older children with valuable life skills and vocational training, preparing them for a self-sufficient future.
- Personalised Support: Our team of dedicated and experienced professionals delivers personalised care and guidance to each child, addressing their emotional and psychological needs.
Our Commitment: Mayamiko Child Care Centre is committed to fostering a sense of belonging, security, and love for the children under our care. We uphold the highest standards of ethics and transparency in our operations, ensuring that the generous support we receive is used effectively to benefit the children we serve.
Board of Trustees
- The Board of Trustees at Mayamiko Child Care Centre plays a crucial role in guiding and supporting the overall mission and vision of our home. Our four Trustees are responsible for overseeing the strategic direction of the centre, ensuring that we stay true to our goals of providing a safe, nurturing, and supportive environment for the children in our care. The trustees bring a wealth of experience and expertise to the table, offering valuable insights into financial management, governance, and long-term planning. They also work closely with the staff to ensure that our operations are efficient, sustainable, and aligned with our values. By helping to secure funding, build partnerships, and maintain high standards of care, the Board of Trustees is essential to the success and growth of Mayamiko.
Staff
- At Mayamiko Child Care Centre, our dedicated team of staff members ensures that our home runs smoothly and that every child receives the care and support they need. Our team includes a House Manager and Project Assistant who oversee the overall functioning and management of the house. They ensure that everything operates efficiently, from day-to-day tasks to long-term planning.
- We are also supported by seven House Mothers who play a vital role in the daily lives of the children. They are responsible for cooking, cleaning, and providing one-to-one childcare for our youngest residents, ensuring that every child feels loved and cared for.
- Additionally, our Gardeners and Guards are essential to maintaining the safety and sustainability of our centre. They keep our grounds clean and well-maintained, grow vegetables and maize to support our food needs, and ensure that our home remains a safe place for everyone. Together, our staff forms the backbone of the Mayamiko family, working tirelessly to create a nurturing environment for all our children.
Volunteers
- Each year, we welcome new volunteers to Mayamiko through our partnership with Project Trust . These volunteers live on-site and play a crucial role in the social and educational development of our children. They contribute significantly to improving English language skills and offer a wide range of activities, including games, trips, homework assistance, and behaviour workshops. Beyond these tasks, our volunteers provide general support and guidance, helping to create a nurturing and enriching environment. They are an essential part of the Mayamiko family, and we are grateful for their dedication and energy every year.
The Children
- The heart of the Mayamiko family is, of course, the children we care for. We wouldn’t be who we are without them. Each child is unique, with their own background, personality, and story. They bring an incredible diversity of energy and joy to our home—from our chaotic and smiley little ones who fill the house with laughter, to our playful and adventurous older children who add their own vibrant spirit.
- We are currently home to 51 children, ranging in age from 1 to 15 years old. Beyond those who live with us, we also support older children through outreach programs as they reintegrate into their communities, ensuring they have the tools and support they need to transition successfully into independent life. Each child, regardless of age, plays a vital role in making Mayamiko the warm and lively family that it is.
