Dennis Orengo Juma, a passionate human rights defender from Nairobi County, has always been deeply committed to standing up for those who are often silenced or forgotten. His work focuses on advocating against police abuse of power and promoting the rights of children, widows, persons with disabilities, and refugees. In 2023, Dennis attended the Human Rights Defenders (HRD) Academy, an experience that not only sharpened his skills but transformed how he approaches his mission of justice.

When Dennis reflects on his time at the HRD Academy, he doesn’t just recall the knowledge gained but the personal growth he experienced. “The training on proper advocacy was life-changing,” Dennis says. “I learned how to craft more effective messages, how to target the right stakeholders, and, importantly, how to measure the impact of my work.” Armed with this new understanding, Dennis began applying these strategies on the ground. His advocacy for children’s rights in Kericho led to crucial conversations about education and protection, while his legal aid efforts for widows in Kajiado provided a lifeline for women often left without support. In Kakuma, he became a voice for refugees navigating the complexities of displacement and marginalization.

One of the most impactful projects Dennis took on after the academy was the development of a Social Justice Mobile App. The app is designed to help vulnerable communities—those at the margins of society—access information and resources related to justice. However, Dennis knew that building the app wasn’t something he could do alone. He reached out to the networks he had built during the HRD Academy, and 23 graduates came forward to help test the app. For three months, they provided feedback, helping Dennis refine and improve the app until it became a reliable tool for the people it was meant to serve. “That collaboration was powerful,” Dennis reflects. “It showed me that we can achieve so much more when we work together. The app wouldn’t be what it is today without their support.”

While the technical skills and advocacy tools he gained at the HRD Academy were invaluable, it was the human connections and sense of community that left the deepest mark on Dennis. He recalls the academy’s opening and closing ceremonies as moments of profound inspiration. Participants from all over Kenya, each with their own unique culture, came together to celebrate through dance, music, and the use of local dialects. “That experience moved me,” Dennis says. “It was a reminder of how diverse and rich our country is. It made me realize I want to connect with as many communities as possible because we have so much to learn from each other. Our differences are our strength.”

For Dennis, the HRD Academy wasn’t just about enhancing his professional capacity; it was about deepening his connection to the people and cultures he serves. He recognizes the challenges human rights defenders face, particularly when it comes to securing resources, but he is hopeful. “Funding is a challenge for many of us,” he admits. “But with the right support, we can scale up our efforts and reach even more people who need help.”

As he continues his journey, Dennis remains dedicated to amplifying the voices of the vulnerable and pushing for systemic change. Whether through his advocacy for children’s rights, his legal aid work, or the mobile app that now connects marginalized communities to justice resources, Dennis Orengo Juma’s mission is clear: to empower the voiceless and ensure that justice is within reach for all. His story is one of resilience, collaboration, and an unwavering belief in the power of community, and he continues to inspire others through his tireless efforts to make the world a more just and equitable place.