Essential Conversations
2020-2026
7 years of conversations imagining and building a world that works for all
From Roots to Impact: Creating a Sanctuary for Belonging and Empowerment
Wednesday, October 28, 2026
9:00-10:30 am CT US
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Then return here to register for free
Join us on October 28 for an Essential Conversation with the Mizizi Initiative, a community-based organization creating a sanctuary for young people, women and emerging artists in Mathare, Nairobi. Through poetry, story and open dialogue, we'll ask a simple question: what does it take to make a space where a community feels truly seen, heard and supported?
We are thrilled to spotlight CPL partner Mizizi Initiative as they launch their future.
Mizizi is Swahili for "roots." In Mathare, one of Nairobi's oldest and largest informal settlements, about 85% of residents are between 12 and 28. It's a community full of artists, filmmakers, musicians, entrepreneurs, women leaders and changemakers. But young people there also face limited economic opportunity, too few safe creative spaces, drug abuse, political intolerance, and the pull of gangs and violence.
The Mizizi Initiative was founded on the belief that impact starts at the roots. Its programs in music, film, photography, visual arts, storytelling and advocacy are built on four pillars: Talent Development, Voice & Advocacy, Community Support, and Women & Leadership. Mizizi has now secured a physical space. But a room doesn't become a sanctuary on its own. Sanctuaries are built together.
In this Essential Conversation you'll:
Hear "Roots," an original poem written and performed by Karanja
Watch The Gift of a Paint Brush, a community story directed and narrated by Julius
Imagine your own sanctuary in a small-group breakout and reflection
Explore how the CPL community can help "water the roots" through skills, networks, mentorship, partnership and resources
Come ready to listen, reflect, and imagine what we can build together.
Who is Mizizi?
Agneta Asitwa, Experienced Filmmaker | Editor | Camera Operator | Director, Managing Director, Sitwa Production
Richard Tabu, Operations Manager, The Whysmen Virtual Pub, Nairobi County, Kenya. Freelance Copywriter, Upwork
Michael Tharuba
Karanja (Toonhood) Wangui, Artist, Art that Impacts/ Writer/ Graphics designer/ Show Host/ Cartoonist/ Creative director, Stunts Actor / Actor/ poet/ Script writer/ Film Director, Author, brOKen; The Diary of Forbidden Desires
Julius
Peris Nyambura Muratha Kibui, Recruitment Consultant at cornhusker connection