Cllr. Sally G. Kimondo - A Kenyan Visionary Leader Bridging Communities in the UK

Sally Gee

Sally G. Kimondo, affectionately known as Sally Gee, is the founder of the Luton and Dunstable Kenyan Community Foundation (LDSKCF). Born to the late Hon. Kiruhi Kimondo, a former Member of Parliament for Starehe during the Moi era, and Ruth Kimondo, Sally's roots are deeply embedded in Kenyan heritage. She is the proud mother of Hope Grant and has two sisters, Julie and Janet, and a brother, Eric. Sally spent her early years in Kenya before relocating to the UK, where she has lived ever since.

As a senior social worker practitioner in Luton, Sally is deeply involved in community life. Her passion for families and the community in Luton and Dunstable is evident in her work. In March 2020, Sally envisioned uniting the Kenyan diaspora, transcending barriers of tribe, religion, age, and gender identity. She aimed to foster community cohesion through engagement and the promotion of cultural diversity.

Sally's vision led to the formation of LDSKCF, a group designed to bridge gaps within the community and provide a platform for unity. A significant aspect of this initiative is educating the youth about their cultural identity, empowering them with knowledge and skills to pass on to future generations. The group also serves as an intermediary between professionals and the community, fostering interactions in a safe environment.

The Luton and Dunstable Kenyan Community Foundation

LDSKCF operates with two main arms: one dedicated to the youth and the other to adults. The group's inclusive approach encourages participation from all age groups, emphasizing the importance of care and togetherness. For instance, during bereavements, the community traditionally contributes to funeral expenses. Recognizing that not everyone can always contribute fully, Sally introduced a system where each member contributes £10 a month. These funds support various group activities, managed transparently by elected treasurers and coordinators.

Despite her innovative approach, Sally faced significant challenges. Within the Luton Kenyan Community and some local Kenyan churches, she encountered discrimination, gaslighting, and trolling. Opposition came from those uncomfortable with her leadership and efforts to unite different Kenyan tribes. Many Kikuyu men in the area resisted the idea of women or other tribes in leadership roles. Sally's attempts to involve groups from other regions were met with accusations of bringing "foreigners" into their territory. When she registered the group to protect its name, she was trolled on WhatsApp and accused of theft.

However, Sally's resilience and commitment to transparency and accountability have helped LDSKCF thrive. The group's structure, with a community account managed by elected officials, ensures that funds are used appropriately, setting a model for the youth to emulate.

Lesson to Learn

Sally G. Kimondo's story teaches us the importance of perseverance and resilience in the face of adversity. Her dedication to community cohesion and cultural education highlights the value of inclusiveness and transparency. Despite facing significant opposition, Sally's unwavering commitment to her vision has created a lasting impact on the Kenyan diaspora in Luton and Dunstable. Her journey underscores the power of unity and the importance of empowering future generations with knowledge and cultural identity.