Stories of Hope
Niko Fortino
“Going to Africa was the best experience of my life. No other place compares. Serving in Kenya with Wonders of Hope completely changed my perspective — seeing joy, gratitude, and deep connection in a place with so little reminded me what truly matters in life. It’s not about what we own, but the impact we make and the relationships we build.”
Going to Africa was the best experience of my life. I have been very blessed to be able to travel to many places around the world including the Bahamas, France, Germany, Ireland, Spain, Italy, Serbia, Brazil, and I can easily say there is no other place like Africa.
I always wanted to go to Africa and serve and I was blessed to go with my mom after I graduated college. It is one thing to see how Africa is on TV, but it is something completely different to go there and experience it in person.
Going to Africa changed my perspective on life completely and made me realize that we as Americans, no matter our situation, have an amazing life compared to those growing up and living in Africa.
Yet, even though it seems like our quality of life is better, Africans seem a whole lot happier with a whole lot less. Going to Africa and serving with the people of Kenya and seeing how happy people are to see you and spend time with you will honestly change how you see the world and change what you value in life.
They are grateful for what they have, take nothing for granted and something that seems so little and meaningless to us can be a treasure to them.
Serving in Kenya with Wonders of Hope will help you to realize what is important in life and, that having a meaningful impact in someone's life and building meaningful relationships that will last forever, is much more gratifying and fills you with happiness much more than buying yourself something shiny and new.”
Amos N., Photographer & Mentor
“I joined Wonders of Hope in 2021 with nothing but wide eyes and a passion for photography and French. From a borrowed phone to a Canon camera, from student to mentor, the journey has been life-changing. Through their mentorship, spiritual guidance, and support, I’ve grown into a confident creative, equipped to inspire others. I now mentor children in Kibera, teach, and tell stories that matter. Wonders of Hope didn’t just invest in my talent — they helped shape my life.”
I joined Wonders of Hope in 2021 just a young boy with wide eyes, a curious heart, and a dream I couldn’t yet define. What I had was a quiet passion for photography, and a borrowed phone I used to capture everyday moments. That’s how it began.
The organization saw something in me something I hadn’t even seen in myself. They believed in my gift and entrusted me with a Canon camera. That simple gesture changed everything. I didn’t just become a better photographer and videographer I found purpose, responsibility, and confidence behind the lens.
I became the first beneficiary of the Wonders of Hope mentorship program, which gave me more than skills it gave me strength. It guided me through the highs and lows of campus life with dignity, resilience, and clarity. I learned how to manage time, communicate effectively, and walk with intention.
As I grew, so did my role. I now mentor children in Kibera, teaching photography, guiding them spiritually, and sharing the life lessons I’ve learned. I’ve taught French and served in Sunday School and KidsFest, becoming part of our beloved Bonjour and Au Revoir families.
One of my proudest moments? Filming a short documentary about our community’s transformation that was shown during a local event. Seeing people moved by that story reminded me how far I’ve come and how powerful hope can be.
Wonders of Hope has supported my journey in ways I could never have imagined including educational trips abroad that exposed me to new cultures, perspectives, and inspiration.
At its core, this is a faith-based family, where we pray together, grow spiritually, and live out our values. I’ve experienced healing here in spirit, in purpose, and in identity.
I’ve seen children come in as abandoned or forgotten and leave as students, leaders, and lights to others. I’ve seen families fed, talents nurtured, and faith restored.
Wonders of Hope isn’t just a program. It’s proof that with love, belief, and guidance, a life can truly change.
I came in with wide eyes and a borrowed dream.
Now I see clearly and help others dream too.
