At International School Hilversum, we are proud to support initiatives that make a meaningful impact in communities around the world. Our long-standing connection with Margaret and Rose in Kenya, the lovely ladies who make our Care Bears, is one such example, demonstrating how creativity and collaboration can transform lives.
The Care Bear Warrd is one of the highest honors one can get at ISH. Each year, only one person per grade can receive this award and that person needs to meet strict, specific criteria revolving around the attributes we associate with someone who willingly looks after others and cares for the community in which they live. In addition, they will do this in a kind and selfless manner.
These Care Bears are made in Keyna by an organisation called Uniting Global Communities through Aid (UGCA). This is an organisation run by women who have been left alone to support a family, sometimes they are left with responsibility not just for their children, but for more than one generation. The International School Hilversum has been a supporter of UGCA sine 2011 and by purchasing these handmade care bears, we generate enough cash to pay the rent for their factory for a whole year!
ISH has supported these initiatives since 2011, initially funding electricity for a small center in Kibera. While the center had to close during the COVID-19 pandemic, our support continues.
Margaret’s Journey
Margaret, originally from Mbale, Uganda, came to Kenya in 1979 to escape the Idi Amin war. Supported by Missionary Sisters, she learned tailoring skills and received a sewing machine, which allowed her to start a small business. Over the years, she has used her craft to sustain her family, even while facing significant health challenges, including brain surgery in 2014 and a mastectomy in 2017.
Margaret’s connection to ISH began in 2009 through a women’s empowerment project in the Kibera slum called Choose Life Today. It was here that she learned to make the Care Bears we know and love today. This skill, introduced by volunteer Marzieh Talebi, not only gave Margaret a new source of income but also forged a connection with our school community.
Rose’s Vision
The empowerment project Margaret joined was founded by Rose Mongare, whose own story is one of resilience and giving back. A widow at 35 and a mother of three, Rose turned personal challenges into opportunities to support others. Through her church and community work, she established programs like Choose Life Today, which teaches tailoring and handicraft skills to women in informal settlements.
Rose also founded the Tulia Education Trust, which helps marginalized students access education. From elementary school to university, Tulia’s efforts have enabled young people to achieve their dreams despite difficult circumstances.
Margaret now makes Care Bears from her home, with the income helping her pay for medication and sustain her family.
This partnership has also strengthened the bond between ISH and the wider community, offering our students and families an opportunity to contribute to impactful causes.
We are incredibly grateful to Margaret, Rose, and all those involved for their dedication and courage. Their stories remind us of the power of compassion and the importance of supporting others in meaningful ways.