Priscilla Gathungu-Java House Group CEO, speaking during the launch of Java Kuza Mentorship Programme at Gatina Primary School Nairobi
Java House, a prominent name in the East African casual dining sector, is celebrating its 25th anniversary by launching the “Kuza Mentorship Programme,” designed to empower children and equip them with essential soft skills for future success. This new initiative aims to enhance academic and career prospects, promote leadership development, and provide a robust platform for nurturing talent.
At the launch event held at Gatina Primary School in Dagoretti North, Nairobi, Java House CEO Priscilla Gathungu underscored the importance of investing in community-driven projects that support child development. “We see this mentorship programme as an opportunity to deepen our engagement with the community and help our children expand their horizons. Over the last couple of years, we have worked with various partners to provide school lunches to over 2,500 children, including those at Gatina. We have observed improved concentration and performance in these children, and we view this programme as the next step in better preparing them for success in life,” said Ms. Gathungu.
The Kuza Mentorship Programme will feature a series of Kuza Talk Sessions involving Java staff, industry professionals, and partners with diverse backgrounds and skill sets. Additionally, the programme includes a student leadership initiative and talent development workshops facilitated by volunteer mentors.
L-R 2R Priscilla Gathungu-Java House Group CEO together with Sharon Chepchumba Kiprono – Malkia strikes Volleyball, Wanjiru Kinuthia- Senior Fundraising Associate Food for Education and Margaret Wanjiru- Head Teacher Gatima Primary School cuts a cake during the Java Foundation launch of Java Kuza Mentorship Programme at Gatina Primary School Nairobi
The launch event attracted various stakeholders such as Food 4 Education, Malkia Strikers, and Wafalme Stars. Margaret Wanjiru, Headmistress of Gatina Primary School, expressed pride in the partnership and optimism for future improvements. “As a school, we are very proud of this association that has helped our children thrive. We are excited about the potential of this partnership, particularly with the support from volunteers like those from Malkia Strikers and Wafalme Stars. Last quarter, our school qualified for regional games but underperformed due to a lack of equipment and coaching. However, with the new support, I am confident we will perform better in the next round,” said Wanjiru.
Through the Java Foundation and in collaboration with NGO Food for Education and other partners, Java House provides daily hot and nutritious lunches to over 2,500 schoolchildren. Founded in 1999 with a single branch in Nairobi, Java House has grown to 91 outlets across 16 cities and towns in three East African countries.
In addition to the mentorship programme, Java House’s 25th-anniversary celebrations include a children’s art competition, visits to key stakeholders, and special discounts and promotions across all branches.