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Celebrating resilience, sacrifice, and the power of community
In 2023, Maureen Auma—affectionately known as Mama Victoria—faced a life-changing decision. Her daughter, Victoria Faith Malongo, was 8 years old and living with developmental challenges that affected her mobility, feeding, and potty training. After being turned away from multiple schools unable to meet her needs, Maureen and her family discovered the Ubuntu Life Foundation.
For the first time, they found a place where Faith was seen for her potential, not her limitations.
Yet there was still a major hurdle. The family lived in Uplands, Limuru, where they had built a strong community and a business that people recognized and relied on. Moving closer to Ubuntu Life meant starting over from scratch — socially, emotionally, and financially.
In August 2023, they took the leap. With nothing certain except their daughter’s need for proper care, they relocated, determined to give Faith the opportunity to thrive.

Transformation Through Determination
Since joining Ubuntu, Faith has made tremendous strides. She now walks with support, feeds herself with a spoon, uses the potty independently, and enjoys socializing with her peers and family. She especially loves singing, playtime, and the beat of the drum — moments that spark joy and connection.
These milestones are a direct result of her parents’ unwavering belief in her, the support of the Ubuntu team, and the nurturing environment that values every child’s potential.
Maureen’s New Beginning
Starting over was not easy. The family faced financial hardship in an unfamiliar community. Their previous sources of income no longer met their needs, and the uncertainty weighed heavily.
Motivated by her daughter’s progress and her family’s needs, Maureen approached Ubuntu Life’s team and shared her past experience as a stitcher at Bata Shoe Factory. She asked for an opportunity to join the Maker Mums, the incredible women who make Ubuntu Life’s products with skill and care.
She was welcomed in.
Today, Maureen earns a reliable income, enabling her to support her children’s education, cover household needs, and maintain Faith’s specialized diet. But more than that, she’s reclaimed her confidence, purpose, and identity — all of which had been diminished by years of rejection and stigma.
Maureen often describes Ubuntu Life as her family’s safe haven — a place that restored their dignity, opened doors, and reignited hope. What began as a search for support became the beginning of a new, empowering chapter.
In the years ahead, Maureen dreams of becoming one of Ubuntu Life’s most skilled stitchers and a mentor to other parents navigating similar challenges. Most of all, she looks forward to watching Faith continue to grow, thrive, and surpass expectations.
Maureen and Faith’s journey is a shining example of what’s possible when courage is met with compassion, and when community becomes family. At Ubuntu Life, we’re honored to walk alongside them — and many others — on the journey toward empowerment, inclusion, and hope.