Teacher Turns 40, Feeds 340 Kids

In a heartwarming display of compassion and purpose, award-winning teacher Shokwei V. Barsulai marked her 40th birthday not with a party or gifts, but by serving 340 cups of porridge to children in need — part of her broader campaign to raise Ksh 40,000 for her Restore Dignity Program.

Barsulai, a beloved educator known for her grassroots advocacy and unwavering commitment to children's welfare, chose to spend her milestone birthday with students, some of whom rely on school meals as their only reliable source of nutrition.

“I thought of bringing a cake,” she shared on social media, “but my heart chose something that would truly fill them—not just their tummies, but their spirits too.”

Her campaign, which she describes as “40 for 40,” aims to raise Ksh 40,000 to ensure that more children receive at least one warm meal a day at school.

The Restore Dignity Program, founded by Barsulai, supports vulnerable children through nutrition, access to basic school supplies, and emotional support. According to Barsulai, “Just one cup of porridge can be the difference between a child dropping out or staying in class with hope.”

She called on friends, family, and fellow changemakers—including her close friend and supporter Hon. Gideon Kimaiyo, who she says promised to be the "first guest" on this journey—to stand with her by donating towards the cause.

“Your support, big or small, will go a long way,” she added.

Donations can be made via M-Pesa to:
Viola Barsulai – 0724841843

Social media has since been flooded with birthday wishes and messages of support, as Kenyans and well-wishers applaud Barsulai’s unique and selfless approach to turning 40.

“This is the kind of leadership our children need,” wrote one commenter. “Not just teaching in class, but teaching by example.”

Barsulai, who has received accolades for her work in education, said this initiative is just the beginning of what she calls her “purpose-driven 40s.”

“My prayer is simple,” she said. “That every child who comes to school knows they’ll get one warm meal. That’s the dream I carry into this new chapter of my life.”

May 19, 2025