Health and wellbeing

Stretchers Youth Organization :Health and wellbeing

Every young person deserves the chance to live a healthy, hopeful, and fulfilling life.

Growing up isn’t always easy. For many young people, adolescence is a journey filled with questions, uncertainty, and life-changing decisions. Along the way, they face challenges that can shape their futures—whether it’s managing stress and anxiety, navigating relationships and sexuality, coping with family or academic pressures, or resisting the influence of drugs and substance abuse.

Too often, these struggles are faced in silence.

Many young people don’t know where to turn for accurate information, trusted guidance, or emotional support. Stigma surrounding mental health prevents countless adolescents from speaking openly about their experiences, while misinformation about sexual and reproductive health can leave them vulnerable to poor health outcomes, unintended pregnancies, sexually transmitted infections, and gender-based violence. At the same time, increasing exposure to alcohol and drug use continues to threaten the health, safety, and potential of many young people.

At Stretchers Youth Organization (SYO), we have witnessed these realities first-hand.

We’ve sat in classrooms where students quietly admitted they were overwhelmed by anxiety but feared being judged if they asked for help. We’ve listened to young people searching for honest conversations about their bodies, relationships, and futures. We’ve worked with schools, hospitals, parents, and communities to support adolescents struggling with stress, trauma, peer pressure, and substance use—many of whom simply needed someone willing to listen.

These experiences have reinforced one simple truth: every young person deserves access to the knowledge, support, and safe spaces they need to make informed decisions and thrive.

That’s why our Health and Wellbeing programmes take a holistic approach, recognizing that physical health, mental wellbeing, and social support are deeply connected. Through community outreach, school-based programmes, digital campaigns, counselling referrals, and strategic partnerships, we equip young people with practical knowledge, life skills, and access to services that enable them to lead healthier, more resilient lives.

Our work focuses on:

  • 🧠 Mental Health: Promoting emotional wellbeing, reducing stigma, encouraging early help-seeking, and strengthening community support for young people experiencing mental health challenges.
  • ❤️ Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR): Providing accurate, age-appropriate information that empowers adolescents and young people to make informed decisions about their health, relationships, and future.
  • 🚫 Substance Abuse Prevention: Raising awareness about the risks of alcohol and drug use while promoting healthy coping strategies, resilience, and positive life choices.
  • 🤝 Community Health Promotion: Working alongside schools, healthcare institutions, parents, government agencies, and development partners to create supportive environments where young people can learn, grow, and thrive.

We believe that improving health is about more than preventing illness. It’s about building confidence, strengthening resilience, creating opportunities, and ensuring every young person feels seen, heard, and supported.

Because when young people are healthy—in body, mind, and spirit—they are empowered to learn, lead, and build stronger communities for generations to come.

Call for support

+254 753004551

info@stretchersyouth.org

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Bahari Estate, along Portreitz Road,
HSE No. 3

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At SYO, we believe that potential exists everywhere, but opportunities do not. That is why we design and implement programs that respond to the real needs of both in-school and out-of-school adolescents and young people. 

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Francisca Muema – Board Member

Francisca Muema is a Social Impact Specialist with over 12 years of experience designing and leading inclusive, transformative programs across education, health, economic empowerment, digital inclusion, and social entrepreneurship. She currently serves as Head of East Africa at Rhiza Ventures, overseeing innovative health and education initiatives across Kenya, Rwanda, and Burundi.

Francisca has worked with global and regional programs including Digitruck Africa, Boost Your Business Incubation, Tusome Kenya, and the Girls’ Education Challenge. Her expertise spans organizational capacity strengthening, sustainability planning, partnership development, and evidence-based programming.

She holds a Bachelor of Education and a Master’s Degree in Educational Psychology, alongside multiple certifications in safeguarding, transformative leadership, business coaching, and mentorship. As a METIS Fellow, she has contributed to innovation in education across East Africa.

As a Board Member, Francisca would strengthen SYO through strategic leadership, program quality oversight, partnerships, and long-term sustainability planning. Her systems thinking and regional experience would support organizational growth and impact at scale.

Peter Akenga Kihamba - Board member

Sustainable impact requires more than great ideas—it requires strong systems, responsible stewardship, and sound financial leadership. Peter Akenga Kihamba brings this perspective to Stretchers Youth Organization, drawing on more than a decade of experience in financial management, grant oversight, compliance, and operational leadership within international development and nonprofit organizations.

As the Country Finance and Administration Manager at We World Kenya Foundation, Peter is helping organizations translate ambitious development goals into measurable and sustainable impact. Through strategic financial leadership, robust internal controls, and effective resource management, he ensures that donor investments are managed responsibly and that organizational systems remain strong, accountable, and responsive to community needs.

Throughout his career, he has built extensive expertise in budget management, financial reporting, donor compliance, risk management, and audit coordination. His experience overseeing complex grant portfolios, including multi-partner consortium projects and European Union-funded programmes, has strengthened his ability to navigate demanding accountability frameworks while ensuring that resources are used efficiently and transparently. His successful oversight of We World’s inaugural EU-funded project valued at €975,000 reflects his commitment to financial stewardship and responsible governance.

Beyond managing finances, Peter is passionate about building institutions that can grow and thrive over the long term. He has played a key role in strengthening organizational systems, improving operational efficiency, and developing high-performing teams. His leadership in expanding the finance department at We World Kenya Foundation from two to nine staff members demonstrates his belief that strong organizations are built by investing in people, fostering collaboration, and creating systems that support excellence.

He also recognizes the critical role that innovation and technology play in strengthening organizational effectiveness. His leadership in transitioning financial management systems from Navision to NP Square reflects a commitment to continuous improvement and the adoption of tools that enhance efficiency, accuracy, and accountability. This systems-thinking approach continues to support stronger decision-making and more effective program implementation.

Peter’s professional experience spans financial planning and analysis, statutory compliance, payroll administration, procurement oversight, logistics management, asset control, and partner capacity strengthening. Through his work with local partners across multiple counties, Peter has helped organizations strengthen financial accountability, improve compliance, and build the institutional capacity required to deliver sustainable development outcomes.

Holding a Master of Science in Finance from the University of Nairobi, a Bachelor of Commerce in Finance from KCA University, and professional certification as a Certified Public Accountant (CPA-K), Peter combines technical expertise with practical leadership experience. As a registered member of the Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Kenya (ICPAK), he remains committed to upholding the highest standards of professionalism, integrity, and accountability.

At Stretchers Youth Organization,he is strengthening the Board’s ability to provide strategic financial oversight, promote sound governance, and ensure responsible stewardship of organizational resources. His experience in donor compliance, risk management, institutional strengthening, and financial leadership supports SYO’s continued growth while reinforcing the trust of communities, partners, and donors.

Driven by integrity, excellence, and a commitment to sustainable development, he continues to help build the systems and structures that enable organizations to create lasting impact. His contribution to the Board strengthens SYO’s capacity to deliver meaningful opportunities for young people while ensuring that the organization remains accountable, resilient, and positioned for long-term success.

Patriciah Awuor Obillo – Board Member

Behind every organization creating lasting social impact is a strong financial foundation built on integrity, accountability, and responsible stewardship. Patriciah Awuor Obillo brings this perspective to Stretchers Youth Organization, believing that sound financial governance enables organizations to grow sustainably while remaining accountable to the communities they serve, their partners, and their donors.

With a professional background in finance, accounting, and tax compliance, Patriciah is strengthening SYO’s governance by promoting transparency, financial discipline, and robust internal systems. She understands that effective financial management goes beyond balancing budgets—it creates the confidence and stability that allow organizations to innovate, expand their impact, and remain resilient in an evolving development landscape.

Throughout her career,she has developed expertise in financial management, statutory compliance, budgeting, and policy implementation. Her experience continues to support organizations in maintaining strong financial controls, meeting regulatory obligations, and ensuring that resources are managed responsibly and in line with strategic priorities.

One of Patriciah’s greatest strengths is her passion for building systems that strengthen institutions. She recognizes that well-designed financial and organizational policies are not simply administrative requirements—they are the foundation of good governance, effective decision-making, and long-term sustainability. This perspective enables her to contribute meaningfully to the continuous improvement of SYO’s financial frameworks, internal controls, and risk management practices.

Beyond her technical expertise,she is driven by a genuine commitment to youth empowerment and community development. She believes that responsible leadership is built on collaboration, ethical decision-making, and shared accountability. These values continue to guide her contribution as the organization works alongside young people and communities to create lasting social change.

At Stretchers Youth Organization, she is supporting the Board in strengthening financial oversight, enhancing compliance with regulatory and donor requirements, and ensuring that financial decisions remain aligned with the organization’s mission and strategic priorities. Her collaborative approach enables her to work closely with fellow board members and management to build systems that promote accountability, efficiency, and long-term organizational resilience.

Through her financial expertise, systems-thinking approach, and commitment to transparency, Patriciah is helping strengthen SYO’s institutional capacity and financial sustainability. Her contribution supports the organization’s ability to steward resources responsibly, build donor confidence, and maximize its impact for young people and communities across Kenya.

Hafsa Thabit Mukhatar – Board Member

Strong institutions are built on a foundation of integrity, accountability, and sound legal governance. Hafsa Thabit Mukhatar brings these principles to Stretchers Youth Organization, combining more than a decade of experience in public service, legal practice, and human rights advocacy to help strengthen the organization’s governance, protect its mission, and support its long-term sustainability.

As an Advocate of the High Court of Kenya and currently serving as a Senior Legal Officer at the Coast Development Authority (CDA), Hafsa is helping guide institutions through complex legal and regulatory environments. Her work spans litigation management, constitutional interpretation, statutory compliance, contract drafting, legal risk management, and strategic legal advisory—experience that continues to strengthen SYO’s governance framework while ensuring that the organization operates with transparency, accountability, and confidence.

Throughout her legal career, she has built a reputation for providing practical legal solutions that balance compliance with institutional growth. Her experience across public institutions and private legal practice has enabled her to advise organizations on governance, policy implementation, commercial transactions, dispute resolution, and regulatory obligations, always with a focus on protecting institutional integrity and promoting sound decision-making.

What distinguishes Hafsa is her passion for using the law as a tool for social justice. During her time with Muslims for Human Rights (MUHURI), she worked closely with communities through legal aid programmes, street law initiatives, and organizational compliance support. This experience deepened her understanding of the unique legal and governance challenges faced by nonprofit organizations while reinforcing her commitment to protecting the rights and dignity of vulnerable communities.

Her commitment to leadership extends beyond the courtroom. From her early years at Zanzibar University, where she served as Minister for Constitution and Good Governance, Assistant Minister for Women Affairs, and Secretary General of the Zanzibar University Kenyan Students Association, Hafsa has consistently demonstrated a belief that leadership is rooted in service, integrity, and empowering others. These experiences continue to shape the collaborative and principled approach she brings to the Board.

Holding a Bachelor of Laws and Shariah from Zanzibar University and a Diploma in Law from the Kenya School of Law, Hafsa combines strong academic grounding with extensive professional experience across public institutions, private practice, and civil society. As a member of the Law Society of Kenya, she remains committed to upholding the highest standards of professional ethics and legal practice.

At Stretchers Youth Organization, she is strengthening the Board’s capacity to provide strategic legal oversight, guide governance and policy compliance, manage institutional risk, and safeguard the organization’s reputation. Her ability to navigate complex legal frameworks while remaining grounded in community-centered values enables the Board to make informed decisions that support sustainable growth and lasting impact.

Through her legal expertise, leadership experience, and unwavering commitment to justice, Hafsa continues to help build a governance culture that promotes transparency, accountability, and responsible stewardship. Her contribution ensures that Stretchers Youth Organization remains well-positioned to advance its mission of empowering young people while maintaining the confidence of communities, partners, and donors.

Linda Wanjiku Gichuki – Board Member

Strong organizations are built on more than passion—they are sustained by integrity, accountability, and sound governance. Linda Wanjiku Gichuki brings all three to Stretchers Youth Organization. As an Advocate of the High Court of Kenya with nearly a decade of legal experience, she is helping strengthen the organization’s governance by ensuring that its growth is guided by ethical leadership, compliance, and a commitment to justice.

Linda is the Founding Partner of Wanjiku Gichuki Law Advocates, where she leads the firm’s strategic direction while managing legal practice, organizational operations, and client representation. Building and managing her own practice has given her firsthand experience in leadership, policy development, financial stewardship, and risk management—skills that continue to strengthen SYO’s governance and institutional sustainability.

Throughout her legal career, she has represented clients, advised institutions, and navigated complex legal and regulatory frameworks with confidence and professionalism. Her experience in litigation, legal research, regulatory compliance, contract review, and dispute resolution enables her to provide practical legal guidance that supports informed decision-making and protects the long-term interests of the organization.

What sets Linda apart is her unwavering commitment to justice beyond the courtroom. Her work with Muslims for Human Rights (MUHURI) reflects a passion for ensuring that legal knowledge reaches those who need it most. Through legal aid initiatives, community advocacy, and capacity-building programmes, she has helped individuals better understand their rights while promoting access to justice for vulnerable communities.

Her commitment to protecting children, young people, and women is further demonstrated through her facilitation of trainings on child protection systems, the Sexual Offences Act, gender equality, and sexual and gender-based violence prevention. She believes that strong communities are built when rights are understood, protected, and upheld, and this perspective continues to inform her contribution to SYO’s mission.

As a Certified Professional Mediator, Linda also brings the ability to foster dialogue, build consensus, and resolve conflicts constructively. Her expertise in mediation, combined with continuous professional development in women’s rights, reproductive health, leadership, and economic empowerment, enables her to contribute a balanced and people-centred perspective to Board deliberations.

At Stretchers Youth Organization,she  is strengthening the Board’s capacity to provide sound legal oversight, uphold ethical governance, and ensure compliance with evolving legal and regulatory requirements. She is helping create systems that promote transparency, accountability, and responsible leadership while safeguarding the organization’s reputation and the trust placed in it by communities, partners, and donors.

Holding a Bachelor of Laws (LL.B Hons.) from the University of Nairobi and a Postgraduate Diploma in Law from the Kenya School of Law, Linda combines professional excellence with a deep belief that effective governance creates opportunities for organizations to serve communities with greater impact. Her legal expertise, strategic thinking, and commitment to justice continue to strengthen Stretchers Youth Organization as it expands its reach and empowers more young people across Kenya.

Hassan Wanini – Board Member

Behind every impactful organization is strong financial stewardship. Hassan Wanini believes that when resources are managed wisely, organizations are better equipped to create lasting change in the communities they serve. With more than eight years of experience in cost accounting and business management, he brings to Stretchers Youth Organization a practical understanding of financial sustainability, accountability, and responsible governance.

Holding a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management from UMMA University, Hassan has built his career helping organizations strengthen financial systems, optimize operational costs, and improve revenue generation. Throughout his professional journey, he has supported institutions in making informed financial decisions that have increased efficiency while achieving revenue growth of up to 70 percent in some engagements. His experience continues to demonstrate that financial discipline is not simply about reducing costs—it is about ensuring that every investment contributes to long-term impact.

At Stretchers Youth Organization, he is strengthening the Board’s ability to provide sound financial oversight, guide strategic budgeting, and promote transparent governance. His expertise in budgeting, financial analysis, audit processes, and internal controls helps ensure that organizational resources are managed responsibly while positioning SYO for sustainable growth and greater impact.

Beyond finance,he recognizes the growing importance of technology in strengthening nonprofit organizations. He champions the adoption of innovative digital systems that improve efficiency, enhance financial reporting, support donor accountability, and create stronger learning and decision-making processes across the organization.

Known for his integrity, collaborative leadership, and attention to detail, he works closely with fellow board members, management, partners, and stakeholders to build a culture of transparency and shared responsibility. He believes that effective governance is rooted in accountability, trust, and making decisions that always place the organization’s mission first.

As Stretchers Youth Organization continues expanding its reach and impact, Hassan’s financial expertise, strategic insight, and commitment to sustainable growth are helping strengthen the organization’s governance systems and ensuring that every resource entrusted to SYO creates meaningful opportunities for young people and communities.