Our Founders

Geoffrey Gatama Geturo was an influential educator and social reformer who played a pivotal role in the development of youth education in Kenya. As one of the three co-founders of Starehe Boys Centre and School, alongside Geoffrey Griffin and Joseph Kamiru Gikubu, Geturo dedicated his life to transforming the lives of underprivileged youth through education and mentorship​.

Geturo’s early life and education were shaped by the challenges of colonial Kenya. Like many of his contemporaries, he witnessed firsthand the struggles of young people caught in the turbulence of the Mau Mau uprising and the broader fight for independence. His leadership abilities were first recognized during his time at Wamumu Rehabilitation Camp, where he served as the head of the main office. There, he worked closely with Joseph Gikubu to instill discipline and structure among the detained youth, an experience that profoundly influenced his future work​.

In 1959, inspired by their experiences at Wamumu and the urgent need to rehabilitate and educate disadvantaged youth, Geturo joined forces with Griffin and Gikubu to establish Starehe Boys Centre and School. He played a crucial role in its early administration, overseeing daily operations and ensuring that students not only received academic instruction but also vocational training and moral guidance​.

Initially, Geturo was put in charge of the Starehe Youth Club, a precursor to the school, where he helped shape the institution’s culture of discipline and excellence. His leadership ensured that Starehe became more than just a school—it became a home for orphaned and destitute boys, providing them with an education, life skills, and a foundation for success​.

Throughout his career, Geturo was known for his dedication to holistic education, emphasizing not only academics but also leadership training, community service, and personal responsibility. He was instrumental in securing funding and resources for Starehe in its formative years, helping to attract both local and international support for the institution​.

Geoffrey Geturo’s impact on Kenyan youth education remains profound. His work at Starehe Boys Centre helped shape generations of young men who went on to become leaders in various sectors, including government, business, and academia. His legacy, alongside that of his co-founders, continues to inspire educational initiatives aimed at providing equal opportunities for disadvantaged children​.

Although less widely known than Griffin and Gikubu, Geturo’s contributions were indispensable in laying the foundation for Starehe’s enduring success. His vision for youth empowerment through education remains a vital part of Kenya’s educational history