Derek Stewart: Ambassador

Derek Stewart is married with two children. Originally from Scotland, Derek is the co-founder of an investment management company based in London. He visited Amani in June 2010 as part of Amani’s Ambassador Program.

“During a break before starting my new business, I had a couple of personal goals to fulfil: trek Mt. Kilimanjaro and get actively involved in a charity that helps underprivileged children. After some internet research, I was lucky to find Amani and my Kili trek became a fund raising opportunity on their behalf.

“In London I coach a children’s football team so I was very excited when my role as an Ambassador was to coach and play football with the kids during the school holiday. At every session the kids were excited, enthusiastic and listened attentively to my instructions. On the first day we must have played football for more than six hours; I was in bed that evening by 6:00!

“I was amazed at how quickly the kids learned new plays and how skillful they were, even playing barefoot on rough grass, and I feel privileged to have earned the nickname “Kocha” (Coach). I really loved just spending time with all the kids, mostly laughing together, getting to know their different personalities.

“My overall experience at Amani is among the most memorable of my life. The kids remain in my thoughts and I stay in regular contact with Amani. I am organizing another Kilimanjaro climb to benefit the Amani children, this time encouraging friends to join me. I want to share with them the amazing experience of getting to know the Amani children. I cannot wait to visit Amani again in Fall 2011.”