About Us
About Us
Dyslexia Organisation Kenya (DOK) is a non-profit organization working to improve understanding, identification, and support for children with dyslexia and other neurodivergent learning needs in Kenya. Founded from lived experience, DOK was created in response to widespread misconceptions about invisible learning differences that often leave children unsupported in mainstream education. As part of this mission, DOK established Rare Gem Talent School, an inclusive school providing structured, strengths-based learning for neurodivergent children.
Our Mission
Through the Rare Gem Neurodiversity Education & Empowerment Programme, we support neurodivergent learners, build teacher capacity, and engage communities to promote inclusive education. We believe every child is a “rare gem” whose potential can thrive when learning differences are understood and supported with evidence-based approaches.
What Volunteers Can Expect
Volunteers join a hands-on, community-based programme where their skills make a real difference. They may support classroom learning at Rare Gem Talent School, assist with teacher training and learning materials, contribute to community outreach and awareness, or support communications and fundraising. Volunteers can expect meaningful impact, cultural exchange, and the opportunity to learn about neurodiversity while contributing to inclusive education in Kenya.
Program at a glance
Why choose us?
Volunteers make a real, visible impact by working directly with neurodivergent children and educators, seeing how structured, inclusive support improves learning and confidence. Rare Gem Talent School offers a specialised, purpose-driven environment focused on neurodiversity, not a generic placement. Volunteers gain practical cross-cultural experience through hands-on teaching, classroom support, community outreach, and skills-based activities while engaging with Kenyan culture and community life. They are also introduced to evidence-based inclusive education approaches, including structured literacy and neurodiversity-affirming practices relevant to education and development fields. Founded from lived experience, Dyslexia Organisation Kenya is a values-led organisation committed to dignity, inclusion, and long-term change, ensuring all volunteer contributions are meaningful, ethical, and impactful.
Requirements
Age - 18 years and above
No Dietary Restriction - however, adjustment for vegetarians and those with special requirements will be provided with prior arrangement
Skills: Passion for working with children and neurodivergent learners
Cultural sensitivity and adaptability to Kenyan community settings
Strong teamwork, communication, and reliability
Openness to learning new skills and participating in training
Language: Ability to communicate in English
Volunteer experience
A typical day for volunteers at Rare Gem Talent School starts with breakfast with their host family. Mornings are spent assisting in classrooms, supporting learners, and helping with structured literacy activities. After a lunch break, volunteers take part in teacher training, community outreach, or project work such as preparing learning materials, supporting communications, or assisting with fundraising initiatives. The day ends with reflection sessions and free time, allowing volunteers to explore local culture, visit markets, or nearby attractions, before returning to their host families for dinner and cultural immersion.
- €3.30 Euro Per Day
- €23.1 Euro Per Week.
Volunteers are hosted by local families living near Rare Gem Talent School, offering a safe, welcoming, and culturally immersive experience. They stay in private or shared rooms within family homes, all within a short distance of the school. Host families are carefully selected and supported by DOK to ensure volunteers feel comfortable, respected, and at home.
Volunteers receive healthy daily meals, typically breakfast and dinner, prepared by host families using local Kenyan cuisine. Meals are nutritious and home-cooked, with adjustments available for vegetarian and other dietary needs upon prior request.
Volunteers can enjoy a variety of activities during their free time, including local cultural experiences such as visiting markets, cafés, and interacting with host families and the community; nature and wildlife activities like trips to Nairobi National Park, wildlife spotting, or guided hikes such as Ngong Hills; adventure travel including weekend safaris, beach trips to Mombasa, or exploring coastal culture; and cultural immersion through learning about Kenyan traditions, food, and community life. All activities are optional, and DOK staff provide guidance to ensure safe, enjoyable, and meaningful experiences.
Photos (20 total)
Showing 5 of 20 photos
