Find Me Unafraid: Love, Loss, and Hope in an African Slum by Kennedy Odede, Jessica Posner, Nicholas Kristof

Find Me Unafraid

Find Me Unafraid shares the unique love story of Kennedy Odede from Kibera, Africa’s largest slum, and Jessica Posner from Denver, Colorado. Their partnership sparked a movement transforming the lives of vulnerable girls and the urban poor.

Kennedy, who survived street life and self-education, founded Shining Hope for Communities (SHOFCO), a youth empowerment group. In 2007, Jessica joined SHOFCO during a semester abroad and chose to live in Kibera with Kennedy, where they fell in love.

Jessica helped Kennedy escape political violence and pursue his education at Wesleyan University. Together, they gained support from community members and notable figures like the Clintons, Mia Farrow, and Nicholas Kristof.

They established Kibera’s first tuition-free girls’ school—a bright blue beacon of hope—and expanded SHOFCO to provide healthcare, clean water, and economic programs. Their model now operates in Mathare, Kenya’s second largest slum, with plans to grow further.

This story highlights the power of love and youth-driven change in fighting poverty and creating lasting impact.