SOUTHWEST BALTIMORE, Md. — A Baltimore man, once featured in the acclaimed documentary “Boys of Baraka”, has returned as an adult to Kenya to give back to the nation that played a pivotal role in reshaping his life.
WATCH: A Baltimore man from the ‘Boys of Baraka’ documentary returns to Kenya to make a difference
Baltimore man from ‘Boys of Baraka’ documentary returns to Kenya
Now at 35 years of age, Devon Brown led a mission trip to Kenya this past December through his nonprofit organization, “Kenya with Love.” Brown was one of twelve Baltimore boys highlighted in the documentary that chronicled their transformative experience spending a year in boarding school in Kenya when he was just 12 years old.
“Kenya truly saved my life. It fundamentally changed my direction and molded me into the man I am now,” Brown reflected. “God granted me the chance, as a boy from East Baltimore, to grow and now engage in missions work across Kenya.”
During their two-week visit, Brown and his team of six ventured into Kibera, known as the world’s third-largest slum in Nairobi. There, they organized two months’ worth of food for over 100 children while also hosting a joyous Christmas celebration for them. The group donated clothing and formula to a local hospital caring for abandoned infants and delivered a vital copier to an orphanage, among other charitable endeavors. Brown has committed to providing the orphanage with a hot water tank by next Christmas.
“These children have almost nothing. When we arrive, their enthusiasm is palpable; they dance and warmly greet you in the most delightful Kenyan manner. It’s truly an unforgettable experience,” Brown expressed.
Such experiences not only bring joy to the children but also foster humility in Brown and his team. “There’s a distinct emotion that enveloped me the moment I stepped off the plane, something I had never experienced before,” Brown remarked. “As a child, it’s hard to recognize that feeling, but as an adult, it humbles you and instills gratitude for everything.”
Currently, Brown is embarking on a new initiative called “Baraka for All,” aspiring to take Baltimore boys on two-week mission trips to Kenya.
“It’s my duty to reach back into my community and provide opportunities for other kids like me—those whose mothers battled addiction, whose fathers turned to alcohol, and whose grandparents stepped in to raise them,” Brown stated.
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