As originally broadcast October 29, 2025, on Blue Ridge PBS …
Our first internationally produced episode stars Elimisha Kakuma, which provides Kakuma, Kenya Refugee Camp students the opportunity to attend universities such as Virginia Tech. Without access to college, these young people would remain trapped inside the camp, and the world would be deprived of their talent and light. Some videography was provided by Kakuma refugees both living at the camp and studying at universities across the United States and Europe.
Kenya’s Kakuma Refugee Camp was established in 1992 with the arrival of the “Lost Boys of Sudan,” who were fleeing civil war. What was meant to be a temporary refuge has become a permanent settlement of over 300,000 refugees. In Kakuma, education offers children an escape from a difficult reality. But more importantly, a decent education creates a pathway to opportunities for children and their families. However, as students get older, access to higher education becomes all but unattainable.
Elimisha (Swahili for “Educating”) Kakuma provides access to higher education for the camp’s high school graduates. Students receive intensive academic instruction, exam preparation, mentorship with current college students, and guidance through the college application process. As more refugees gain access to higher education, their long-term life outcomes will be improved and their communities will be strengthened.
Funding for this episode was provided by the Cranwell Family Foundation.
