Pure Magic

I want to tell you about my friend, James Ouma. He is pure magic!

We were introduced by a mutual friend and teacher, Helen House. When Helen learned that I retired due to the DOGE downsizing the Voice of America, she reached out to me (a very kind act that has helped put me on a trajectory that I am completely in love with). 

As we spoke and she learned about my career as a TV executive producer for the VOA’s Africa Division, she asked, “Can I introduce you to my friend, James? He runs a project in Kenya that I’m passionate about.”  She met James (and me) through her work with the Coaches Training Institute. 

James Ouma is the founder of Lifesong Kenya, a home for boys  who have experienced fatherlessness, life on the streets, and very often, trouble with the law. He recently made himself a Tshirt that says “father-figuring”. 

The path he has chosen is a difficult one. Most of the boys have experienced trauma. Some so dire that it’s heartbreaking. And sometimes they behave like traumatized children. James provides a loving home for them. He somehow finds the resources to clothe them, pay for their school, and mentors them as they strive to become the kind of men I want to see in this world. 

Home | Lifesong Kenya

I say that James is “pure magic” because even as he struggles to put food on their table, and his own…even when his spirit gets trampled by a stampede of doubts, setbacks, and heartbreaks, he does not give up. James is a man who knows why he is on this earth – to return the love and nurturing he was given when his youth was challenging. Because James lives from this place, he draws to himself people who want to give back too. The power of his intentions keeps bringing allies that encourage his dreams and, in turn he encourages theirs. 

He is currently launching a program called Born for Greatness. Through mentorship and experiential outdoor learning, he aims to help boys break free from stories of limiting beliefs, social stigma and trauma. The goal is to equip boys with the clarity and confidence to succeed while fostering a spirit of social responsibility that uplifts the wider community.

Home | Born for Greatness

James is an amazing Co-Active Coach and Narrative Guide. He has a way of seeing the real you, of seeing beyond your current situation and calling you forward into the best version of your own story. I am so very grateful for his wisdom and friendship as we cheer each other on toward our callings in this life.