Shining a Light on M-Kids: A Mauritian Association Dedicated to Improving the Lives of Vulnerable Youth

Port Louis, Mauritius: Earlier this month, UTS CEO Julia Govinden visited Mauritius and had the opportunity to spend time at M-Kids, a remarkable local association dedicated to supporting and improving the lives of vulnerable youth. Vulnerable Children refers to individuals under the age of 18 who are living in poverty, have a disability or a severe disease, have suffered abuse, neglect, abandonment, orphans and teenage parents, or children with incarcerated parents, in conflict with the law, out-of-school and illiterate, or suffering from substance abuse.

During her visit, Julia met the passionate team under the founding leadership of Mohammad Arshad Joomun, the vision behind the association and spent a heartwarming day with 60 children, aged 4 to 18, at a local orphanage run by M-Kids Association.

While the visit itself was a meaningful and precious experience, it highlighted the incredible work that M-Kids does every day to create opportunities and a brighter future for the children in their care. Today, we want to shine a spotlight on this amazing association and their impact on the lives of so many children in Mauritius.

Who are M-Kids?

M-Kids is a registered national NGO committed to alleviating child poverty and ensuring that no child is left behind. Through multi-stakeholder programs and community-driven initiatives, they work tirelessly to improve the well-being of vulnerable children and providing them with opportunities and education for a chance to thrive on the playing field of life

The association focuses on 4 key areas:

  • Child Poverty Alleviation: Providing essential support to families in need, ensuring children have access to food, shelter, and basic necessities.
  • Remedial Education & Life Skills Empowerment: Offering after-school remedial classes, life skills training, and second-chance education programs for children who have fallen behind in traditional schooling.
  • Psycho-Social Support & Therapy: Addressing mental health challenges through counseling and emotional support to help children navigate trauma, anxiety, and other difficulties.
  • Youth & the Environment: Encouraging young people to engage in environmental initiatives and fostering a sense of responsibility towards sustainability.

Making an Impact

Since 2010, M-Kids has transformed young lives in Mauritius through education, psychosocial support, and healthcare. Their after-school remedial classes boast a 90% attendance rate, with 70% of students improving academically while receiving individual tutoring and a daily hot meal. Psychologists offer a safe space for children to build confidence and develop problem-solving skills, leading to 85% reporting improved well-being. Health screenings ensure essential medical care, with 70 children receiving check-ups in 2023 and 15 gaining much-needed eyeglasses.

Education for All

Recognizing that traditional schooling does not work for every child, M-Kids launched the Educational Empowerment Class (EEC) , a second-chance education initiative for students who have dropped out or faced academic difficulties. This program focuses on equipping students with essential life skills, guiding them toward career opportunities, and ensuring they at least obtain a primary school certificate. The results speak for themselves: 100% of enrolled students reported improved confidence and motivation toward education and future prospects.

A Vision for the Future

M-Kids envisions a society where all children have equal access to basic needs, feel safe and supported, and receive opportunities to have a fair chance in life. Their core values of faith, accountability, transparency, justice, and partnership drive their work, ensuring that each child they support is given the best. 

At United Through Sports, we are honored to have connected with such a dedicated organization and to witness the incredible impact they have on young lives. The work of M-Kids serves as an inspiring example of how grassroots efforts can create meaningful change. We invite you to support this organisation and for volunteers looking for a special opportunity to give back to the next generation, this is for you!

To learn more about M-Kids and their work, visit their website and follow them on Facebook: M Kids Organization Youth Council