Roots & Wings
Empowering the Next Generation in East Africa
The Context
In rural East Africa, when a mother reaches out for help, it is almost always for her children. Guided by this truth, Alabaster International partners with women to invest in the next generation through education, leadership, and peacebuilding.
About the Program
Roots & Wings is a children and youth empowerment initiative designed for conflict-affected communities. Co-created with rural women, the program equips children with:
- Roots through education, environmental stewardship and literacy
- Wings through debate and sports fostering conflict resolution and unity
Where We Work
Roots & Wings is currently active in:
Kenya
South Sudan
Roots & Wings: Four Pillars of Empowerment
Roots & Wings is built on four interconnected pillars that equip children and youth in conflict-affected communities with the tools to grow, lead, and dream. Each pillar reflects our belief that education, creativity, and community action can transform lives.
Debate Clubs &Leadership Trainings
Youth find their voice through structured debate and leadership workshops that foster critical thinking, empathy, and civic engagement. In regions shaped by conflict, these clubs become safe spaces for dialogue, vision, and peace building. Students learn to lead with purpose whether facilitating discussions, organizing community events, or mentoring peers.
Youth-ledTree Planting
Tree planting becomes a symbol of hope and renewal. Students lead planting days at schools and community centers, choosing fruit and shade trees that nourish both land and people. These activities promote environmental stewardship, food security, and teamwork while connecting youth to the land and their future.
School Supplies & Sports Equipment
Roots & Wings removes basic barriers to learning by providing essential school supplies tailored to local needs. Each notebook and pencil affirms a child’s right to education. Alongside learning tools, sports equipment brings joy, resilience, and inclusion turning schoolyards into spaces of healing and play.
Reading Societies &Libraries
Literacy is the foundation of imagination. Through reading clubs, storytelling circles, and community libraries, children discover new worlds and build confidence. These spaces encourage creativity, curiosity, and dreaming empowering youth to write their own futures.
Impact & Progress
- Over 10,000 students equipped with essential school supplies
- 100+ trees planted in conflict-affected regions
- 5 student clubs launched across two nations
- A community library serving 300+ students annually in Kenya
Program Leadership
Roots & Wings is developed and implemented by Alabaster International, in collaboration with a steering committee of local and international educators, community leaders, and youth development experts.
Join Us
We invite you to be part of this innovative movement.