Breaking Barriers: Moses’ Journey to Confidence and Friendship at Kupenda’s Running Club

Kupenda’s Inclusive Running Clubs continue to create spaces where children with and without disabilities can run, learn, and grow together. Through these clubs, participants build friendships, strengthen their confidence, and receive spiritual support that affirms the value of every child. The program is a collaboration with the Micah 6:8 Foundation and We Run We Rise, and children are recruited through local schools and churches where teachers and pastors have been trained by Kupenda as disability advocates.

One of the young people most impacted by these clubs is Moses, a 24-year-old student at a local special school with a physical disability. At first, Moses viewed himself differently from people without disabilities. He thought that he could not play with other children, especially when they engaged in physical activities.

Through Kupenda’s Inclusive Running Club, Moses had the opportunity to interact with students without disabilities. He learned that all people are created in the image of God and that everyone has different abilities. Moses began participating in the club’s physical activities, which he said felt like a dream after being excluded from these types of activities his whole life. Encouraged by the coaches, he developed confidence about his ability to participate. He realized that when someone is given an opportunity, they can realize their potential, and this brought him great joy.

Moses also learned the importance of using person-first language when talking about someone with a disability–for example, saying “a person with a physical disability” instead of “a physically disabled person.” This made him happy, as the other children stopped describing him by his disability and instead began using language that reflects his dignity by recognizing him as a person first.

Moses’ story shows how access, encouragement, and inclusive spaces can transform self-perception, foster friendships, and help young people realize their potential. Thanks to the running club, Moses has many friends at the mainstream school, and they now spend time together telling stories. He is happy engaging in physical activities and he has developed a growing interest in the club.

“I am created in the image of God,” said Moses. “God loves me the way I am.”

Your support makes inclusive spaces like this possible. Will you consider supporting more children like Moses to experience belonging, confidence, and hope?

Want to keep updated on Kupenda’s work?

Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, YouTube, and X.

Learn more about Kupenda in our podcast.

Sign up for our newsletter.

Or provide a child scholarship for just $35 / month.