"In this day and age, when so many are looking to make their own wealth in this world, it is so refreshing to meet people who think of others first and how to make their lives better. We had the pleasure of meeting such a man in the person of Oumar Skenz Bello, the young CEO of a nonprofit organization called Koi’noniyah International Foundation. While young people his age are out there looking for ways to make another buck, he spends his time finding ways to make a difference in the lives of those who have lost everything due to life’s circumstances and have nowhere to turn to. We had a life changing experience with this young man as we were privileged to get his first interview."
TWU Mag: When it
comes to this Foundation, Who is your first target?
KIF CEO: The women and children, because they are the most
vulnerable when crises happens.
TWU Mag: And how
exactly do you plan on reaching them?
KIF CEO: relief materials and one on one visitation with our
foundation crew.
TWU Mag: Wow!
This sounds really exciting sir. And what is the next step after reaching the
people and getting a positive response?
KIF CEO: Like the recent flood in some part of the country,
diseases broke out. We would reach such with medical need and their immediate
needs like food, mattresses, soap and other toiletries… This is just an example
of how we can reach the victims of the flood. We can also have educational
materials to primary schools, like uniforms, books, pencils and so on. And can begin to teach the children from
primary level of how to shun violence and be their brother’s keeper.
TWU Mag: This
really interesting. So what are the long lasting activities you are planning to
ensure follow up and what is the long term plan for the people you reach and
the Foundation as a whole?
KIF CEO: We would have like a hundred to two of children that
we can see to higher level of education and be responsible for. About the women
we would like a vocational training center to empower them. Men also are not
left out. But the message of peace will never be over emphasize through this
mediums
TWU Mag: Wow....
It sounds really big. Is there a particular area in Nigeria you plan on
starting with?
KIF CEO: Sure, the northern part!
TWU Mag: Any
particular reason why?
KIF CEO: Of course based on the fact, that the northern part
has been more affected in the last 4years by crises, terrorist attacks and so
on.
TWU Mag: Yeah, we
always hear about things going on there. So sir what are the results you look
forward to in reaching those people?
KIF CEO: Financially, relief materials, moral support
endorsement and much more. For drugs and medical help we can work with the
medical association here.
TWU Mag: And what
kind of professionals will you have on the team, given that you will be dealing
with people who have suffered trauma and other things of the kind?
KIF CEO: Like musicians, footballers, actors, counselors,
doctors, entrepreneurs. Some might be members and some might not but each time
we have to project we are surely going to reach these groups of professionals
to help in what we will be doing!
TWU Mag: And what
would be their respective roles in the Foundation? How do you plan to use
people like musicians, actors, footballers and the like in your outreaches?
KIF CEO: For the musicians, they sing for this these affected
people and by so doing their wounding spirit can be revived. Positive
musicians. For footballers they show the
kids and the youth that sport is good and make became respected in the society.
Instead of doing violence. Because begins from a tender heart.
TWU Mag: What
about actors? Where do they come in?
KIF CEO: Talk to the kids, be a role model to them as well by
showing love to them through what they will be doing to inspire the kids.
TWU Mag: And when
it comes to the older folks and the elderly, like those who feel it's too late
to sit at a school desk, are there some specific programs of teaching them,
from reading and writing, to specific skills to help them in life?
KIF CEO: Yeah! Like vocation and setting up small scale
business to help look after themselves.
TWU Mag: That’s
awesome!
KIF CEO: Thank you!... Even though you have put me on a brain
test tonight!
TWU Mag: Hahahaha!
We will be done soon sir. What are your expectations from the people you will
be reaching?
KIF CEO: To see them have a better life and be better than the
way we meet them. That they can also give glory to God.
TWU Mag: Amen to
that!
KIF CEO: Yeah!
TWU Mag: So who
are your sponsors at the moment, and what are your strategies in getting
continuous sponsorship in ensuring the longevity of the Foundation?
KIF CEO: Come together with these professionals from time to
time to do a fund raising via concerts and so much more.
TWU Mag: Only a
couple more questions sir... Are there some projects or businesses you are
planning as a source of income to the foundation, just to be on the safe side?
KIF CEO: No. Our registration terms do not allow us to conduct
any kind of business.
TWU Mag: Ok. And
is Nigeria your only target? Or do you plan on reaching out to other countries
too?
KIF CEO: Of course other countries. That's why it’s an
international foundation.
TWU Mag: Right.
This is all very interesting and exciting sir. So how can one get involved with
this Foundation?
KIF CEO: By getting in touch with us through our contact and
email for now then we can talk. Then we will be able to send you our account if
there will be any need for that.
TWU Mag: Wow!
Thank you very much sir! We appreciate you taking the time to answer our
questions. It's been a wonderful time with you!
KIF CEO: You are welcome!
©2012 That’s What’s Up Magazine
