In the heart of Kenya’s Rift Valley, where the air is thin and the hills stretch towards the clouds, a group of girls rise before the sun. This region, known for its high altitude and breathtaking terrain, is a natural training ground — one that has produced some of the greatest runners the world has ever seen.
And among the dusty tracks and rocky paths, future champions are training — in flip-flops.
These girls, some as young as 12, show incredible speed, stamina, and discipline. Their talent is undeniable, and if you watch them run, you’d think they were already preparing for international competitions. But look closer — and you’ll see the cracks in their footwear, or bare feet pounding the ground, blisters forming with every step.
It’s a powerful mix of passion and poverty — but hope has arrived.
Through One Woman at a Time, and thanks to the amazing support of donors in the UK, over 50 pairs of adult running shoes have now made their way to these incredible young athletes. For the first time, they’re lacing up real trainers — not plastic sandals or old flip-flops — and the difference is life-changing.
We’re now collecting more, especially in sizes 5 and 6, to support more girls who dream of following in the footsteps of Kenya’s legendary athletes.
One girl told us: “Running is part of who we are. Now, with shoes, I feel like my dreams are getting closer.”
These hills have shaped champions — and with the right support, these girls could be next. Their journey begins not with medals or podiums, but with kindness, belief, and a single pair of shoes.
Join us in supporting these young runners. Let’s keep them running — not just toward the finish line, but toward a brighter future, one woman at a time.
