SIMrise, originally called “SIMilili”, began its journey in Kilifi, Kenya to help the community of Matsangoni. In 2018, the project initially focused on Kimilili in western Kenya, collaborating with a local NGO. Due to transparency issues, the initiative relocated to Bungoma, 30 km away. However, as Bungoma received government support, SIMilili17 decided to shift to Kilifi, located on the eastern coast of Kenya, to serve communities in greater need. SIMilili18 took over the work started in Matsangoni, acquiring land to build a chicken farm as a sustainable income source to support children’s education. This project was completed by SIMilili19, who finished the construction and terminated the partnership with the NGO.
In 2023, SIM20 relocated to Kampong Chhnang, Cambodia, and rebranded to “SIMRise”, symbolizing the rise of the community in Cambodia. They partnered with the Swiss NGO Smiling Gecko to build a greenhouse at the local school, promoting agricultural education. Due to ongoing regional needs and the successful partnership, SIM21 chose to remain in Kampong Chhnang to achieve sustainable impact through continuity and deeper engagement, building on the meaningful work the previous SIM generation already begun in the area.
“A child without education is like a bird without wings.” - Tibetian proverb
Supporting local communities and the education of children is among the most impactful ways to lift up a country and improve the lives of its people. Our team intends to build on the solid structure and collaboration with the NGO Smiling Gecko established by the previous generation for the SIMrise project. However, we aim to shift the focus from agriculture to education, directly addressing UNSDGs such as quality education and no poverty. This includes redirecting our fundraising efforts toward supporting the construction of a high-quality middle school, and conducting educational workshops during our time on-site, allowing the children to benefit from our experiences and knowledge.
András Domschitz | Communication and Project Development |
Christine Westermann-Lammers | Communication and Project Development |
Finn Gustenberg | Finance |
Sofia Balestrieri | Fundraising |
Loredana Sinardo | Fundraising |
Jacopo Tagariello | Fundraising |