The consulting firm will back Amber Benham, the 19-year-old daughter of long-standing associate Rich Benham, in her upcoming work with the Derby County Community Trust’s ‘Rams in Kenya’ programme.
The initiative, taking place from May 17 to June 1 this year, and will see Amber joining volunteers in the slums of Nakuru, Kenya, where she’ll contribute to building new schools, providing teaching supplies, and supporting sports activities within the local community.
Steve Boam, CEO of Develop Consulting, said: “When Rich approached us about supporting Amber’s mission in Kenya, we didn’t hesitate for a moment. Her dedication to making a real difference in these communities perfectly aligns with our own values of transforming and improving lives. We’re incredibly proud to sponsor Amber in this endeavour and look forward to seeing the positive impact she’ll make.”
Despite facing personal challenges, including recently completing a business administration apprenticeship with triple distinctions and overcoming various health obstacles, Amber has shown remarkable determination. She recently demonstrated this spirit by completing a challenging 10k sponsored run – her first-ever running event – even after dislocating her collar bone just two weeks before the race.
The Derby County Community Trust has been running this transformative programme since 2012, with over 500 volunteers having already made a difference in partner schools across Nakuru. The project focuses on improving sanitation, building new classrooms, enhancing safety measures, and supporting educational and physical activities.
Develop Consulting, alongside
Click2Learn, will have their logos featured on Amber’s volunteer shirts, contributing to essential costs including flights, accommodation, and the valuable community projects in both Kenya and Derby.
Rich Benham, who has been a valued associate of Develop Consulting, has shared his pride in Amber’s commitment to making a difference: “Amber wanted to do this challenge for a while, and I believe it will be transformative for her – pushing her out of her comfort zone while giving something back to others.”
Amber added: “I am extremely excited to be going on this amazing journey in May. When I was completing my apprenticeship, I was telling other colleagues ‘I will be going on this trip I want to help others and explore’ and I can finally say I am. I am proud to say this year has the most volunteers and I am one of seventy. I am most excited to teach in the schools, dance with the community, build new friendships with teachers, families and students and also learn there culture.”
We look forward to following Amber’s journey and sharing updates as she prepares for this life-changing experience in Kenya.