ABOUT US

We restore hope and give every child the tools to thrive- emotionally, socially and academically.

Childhood trauma isn’t just an emotional scar—it changes the way children learn, grow, and see the world

In Kenya, thousands of children experience abuse, neglect or violence. Many never receive the help they need, leading to low school performance, behavioral struggles, and mental health issues that follow them into adulthood. Without intervention, its effects can last a lifetime, fueling cycles of poverty, violence, and poor health

With the right care and support, children can heal, regain their confidence, and create brighter futures

At Gifted Hands for Tender Hearts, we believe no child should carry the invisible wounds of trauma alone. Since May 2025, we have been working in Juja Subcounty, Kiambu County, to help school-going children overcome the effects of abuse, neglect, loss, and poverty.

We partner with local schools—beginning with Gachororo Primary School—to provide trauma screening, counseling, psychosocial support, and caregiver training.

OUR MISSION

To restore hope and emotional well-being in school-going children affected by trauma through early screening, trauma-informed counseling, psychosocial support, and caregiver engagement—empowering them to learn, thrive, and build brighter futures.

OUR VISION

A community where every child grows up free from the lasting effects of trauma—resilient, emotionally healthy, and empowered to reach their full potential.

CORE VALUES

  • Compassion – We meet each child with empathy, kindness, and a deep commitment to healing.
  • Integrity – We uphold honesty, transparency, and accountability.
  • Respect – We honor the dignity and unique experiences of every child and family.
  • Collaboration – We partner with schools, caregivers, and communities to create lasting change.
  • Excellence – We deliver evidence-based interventions with measurable results.
  • Empowerment – We equip children and families to break cycles of trauma and vulnerability.

OBJECTIVES

  • Early Identification – Conduct regular trauma screening in schools to identify affected children early.
  • Therapeutic Support – Provide individual and group trauma-focused counseling to improve emotional regulation, behavior, and learning outcomes.
  • Caregiver Engagement – Offer psycho-education to parents and guardians to strengthen family support systems.
  • School-Based Interventions – Train teachers on trauma-informed care to create safer, more supportive learning environments.
  • Nutritional Support – Facilitate access to hot school meals for vulnerable children to enhance concentration, attendance, and well-being.
  • Community Awareness – Promote understanding of childhood trauma, its impact, and prevention strategies within the wider community.
Our Leadership

Together, we are building a future where every child can laugh, learn, and dream again.

We restore hope and give every child the tools to thrive emotionally, socially and academically.

Gladys Kiama

Gladys Kiama

Founder & Lead Counselor
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Bio

Gladys Kiama

Gladys Kiama, is a Registered Counseling Consultant with over two decades of professional practice in mental health and psychosocial support.


She holds a degree in Counseling Psychology and advanced training in child and adolescent therapy. She is duly registered with the National Counsellors and Psychologists Board of Kenya.For more than 10 years, Gladys has served as a private consultant, specializing in trauma-focused interventions, counselor supervision, and training of trainers (ToT) in adolescent reproductive health and mental health.


Her expertise includes designing and facilitating therapeutic programs for children, families, and educators, with a focus on building resilience and recovery after trauma.She has also been instrumental in school-based trauma therapy initiatives, working directly with children affected by adversity while empowering teachers and caregivers with skills to provide trauma-informed care. In addition, she offers professional supervision to fellow counselors, ensuring adherence to high ethical and clinical standards.


Gladys combines evidence-based models, such as CBT and play therapy, with creativity, art, and storytelling to make therapy accessible to children. At the core of her work is a guiding belief: every child deserves safety, healing, and the opportunity to thrive.

Peter W. Muchugi

Peter W. Muchugi

Operations Advisor
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Bio

Peter W. Muchugi

Peter is a senior logistics expert with over 20 years of experience in operations management and customer care. Known for his attention to detail and reliability, he brings efficiency and precision to every project.

Beyond his professional work, Peter is deeply committed to supporting vulnerable children in his community, combining strategic expertise with a heart for service.