Founder's Bio
CHILDHOOD AND EDUCATION
Joyce Muthoni Kabugua, popularly known as Joy, is the second-born girl and the fourth-born among the twelve children of David Kabugua wa Njega and Cecilia Wanjira. She was born on January 1, 1969, in Nderwa, Kiarukungu Village, Tebere Ward, Mwea Constituency, in Kirinyaga County. Nderwa was a dry land, and it was a struggle for the parents of twelve children to bring them up. They had to take up casual jobs to sustain Joy and her siblings for school and essential needs. It wasn’t until the 90s when the lands started being utilized for rice farming mainly, and livelihood became easier, especially with the production of the aromatic Pishori rice.
Joy attended and completed her primary education at Karira Primary in Tebere Ward, Mwea Constituency. She then joined Karoti Girls High school located in Mwea for O’Levels and completed it in 1990. Thereafter,Joy Joined College; Kabete Technical Training Institute – Enrolled for Pharmacy Course Through correspondence( Distance learning), She pursued course in; Childhood and youth Development from KwaZulu Natal University in South Africa.
FIRST HAND CHARITY AND CHRISTIAN LIFE
Over the past 40 years, Joy’s dedication to serving vulnerable children started with the guidance and unwavering support of her parents, David Kabugua wa Njega, and the late Mum Cecelia Wanjira David. They ingrained in her a profound sense of compassion and the value of giving back to the community, especially to those in need. Growing up, Joy’s parents’ strong Catholic faith served as a guiding light, shaping her values and inspiring her to follow their Christian principles.
In 1983, Joy’s active engagement began during holiday breaks when she eagerly attended St. Peter Clavers Karira Parish, under the Catholic Diocese of Murang’a. Joy dedicated her time to offering various services in the church and actively participating in masses under the guidance of Father Guido Baggio. This profound experience provided Joy with a direct and heartfelt
understanding of the challenges endured by the less fortunate members of the community. For example, when Joy was taken on a mission to feed the less fortunate at Ndindiruku and Kiamanyeki villages back in 1983, just as a young teenager, it was a pivotal moment that deepened her understanding of the hardships those children faced.
Later on, Joy found herself with the Sisters of Mary Immaculate at Our Lady of Lourdes Karira Hospital located in Mwea, under the management of the late Sister Eliana, who guided and gave her an opportunity to volunteer from 1988 to 1990. Here, Joy received training to care for the sick, further preparing her for the challenges ahead.
MARRIAGE AND FAMILY
Joy is married to Mr. Daniel Kiguru Kamau, together they have six biological children. The children in part grew up when Joy Rescue Centre was in its early years of operations and service to humanity. They had the privilege of growing up together and and offering their support to the less fortunate children in their little ways while on holiday. Today, the children have embraced the vision and are contributing to the ministry in different capacities.
JOY'S SPIRITUALITY LIFE AS A LAY CARMELITE
Having been raised, baptized, and married within a Catholic background, Joy steadfastly maintained her Catholic faith. Under the guidance of Fr. Michael Kamau of the Contemplative Evangelizers of the Heart of Christ, Joy embraced a transformative journey On 22 May 2008, she took her promises to serve
the poor and all those in need of her help in her earthly journey as life of a mission. As she transitioned through different phases of life, a pivotal moment occurred in 2012 at Joy Rescue Centre. This moment of dryness coincided with the challenges she faced while serving the less fortunate. It was during this
time that Joy truly experienced the depth of God’s goodness and Divine Providence for those who place unwavering trust in Him. This experience was shrouded in mystery, deepening her desire to serve God. Driven by her unshakeable faith, Joy aspired to join a faithful group within the Catholic Church known
as a “Third Order” (Secular group in Catholic Faith) a group of laypeople who pursue spiritual growth
while remaining in the secular world. This aimed to assist her in further enriching her commitment to serving God. Throughout her journey of exploration and eventual integration into Carmelite spirituality as a secular member (OCDS), Joy’s faith and total trust in God has remained firm even during the most challenging and trying moments.
On 15/10/2015 Joy set her first footsteps in Carmelite, Amidst the bustling streets of Nairobi Town, as she embarked on her journey towards Carmelite Community based in Langata South Road(Karen), Joy stepped onto a bus with a sense of uncertainty about her destination. Fortuitously she found herself seated beside a nun, and as their conversation unfolded, this nun introduced herself as Sr. Brenda.The
similarity of this name with that of her second-born daughter fostered an instant bond between Joy and the nun, almost as if they were conversing like mother and daughter all through their journey. Despite Sr. Brenda’s intended destination being ahead of Carmelite Community , she disembarked at the Carmel stage, driven by her commitment to Joy’s welfare. Together, they embarked on an
enigmatic entry into the Carmel Community; at around 7.30pm in the evening, they arrived to discover the evening Mass(Feast day of Saint Teresa of Avila) had just concluded. In a momentous gesture, Sr. Brenda entrusted Joy to the care of Fr. Santorino, the then Superior of the St. John of the Cross Community. Commemorating the grand feast dedicated to Saint Teresa of Jesus (also known as St.
Teresa of Avila) delicious meals, beverages and a cake were shared among the guests and the members of the community. This occurrence held a unique and profound significance, as it felt divinely
orchestrated, leaving an indelible imprint on Joy’s life.
In January 2016, Joy embraced a new chapter as she joined the formation of third order, as a Lay Carmelite under the spiritual guidance of her then Spiritual Director, Fr. Samson Ongaki Gwaro who was very kind, understanding and helpful to Joy’s special challenging calling to the poor. Joy’s current Spiritual Director, Fr. Patrick Ekpada, has been instrumental in continuing to serve as a guiding light, influencing her choices and contributing to her ongoing journey of self-discovery and connection to the divine call, to grow her commitment to works of mercy for humanity.Today, Joy continues to be a member of the Lay Carmelites within the Order of Carmelite Discalced Secular (OCDS) in Kenya. Her
commitment to integrating Carmelite teachings into her everyday life, embracing a path of simplicity, humility, and service is beautifully reflected in her compassionate pursuit of evangelization efforts,
where she extends acts of mercy to the people of the Kenyan region through her selfless service to the needy and vulnerable children in Kenyan communities through Joy Rescue Centre children’s ministry. Furthermore, Joy’s spirituality is a source of strength and guidance, allowing her to navigate life’s
challenges with resilience and a sense of purpose. Her spirituality finds expression in contemplative
practices; prayer, study, community, and service. Her connection to spiritual figures, such as Saint Teresa of Jesus (St. Teresa of Avila), St Rita of Cascia, St Jude and Our Lady Queen Beauty of Carmel,
provide her with solace and inspiration. Special appreciation to Carmelite Community of Kenya and the OCDS group members of Kenya.
BUSINESS AND EMPLOYMENT
Since 1997, Joy had been residing in the Eastlands part of Nairobi with her young family. She ran a small-scale baking business located in Gikomba. Joy was popularly known as ‘Wa Keki’ for her cake sales to the business community in Gikomba Market in Nairobi. She managed to run
the business even while attending college and only stopped after securing a job as a volunteer
with KENWA.
From November 2005 to January 2006, Joy worked as a volunteer staff member at KENWA (the Kenya Network of Women Living with HIV/AIDS). Her main responsibilities included outreach programs focused on providing home-based care to HIV and AIDS patients, infected children and orphans. “During that time, the stigma surrounding AIDS was severe, leading to people being evicted from their homes.” KENWA intervened to assist diagnosed individuals by conducting home visits, offering antiretroviral therapy (ART), and providing essential support such as nourishment, bed management, and care.
This experience offered a firsthand understanding of the challenges and triumphs associated
with HIV-positive children, particularly orphans. Despite losing their parents to the disease,
some children not only survived but also thrived. Joy made visits to various locations,
including Kiandutu in Thika, Mathare slums in Nairobi, and Kiawara in Nyeri.
During the inception of the Joy Rescue Centre, it became evident that Joy’s calling was to aid
the needy and less fortunate, especially those infected and affected by HIV. However, she lacked knowledge about how to proceed. Asunta Wagura, the Director of KENWA, played a pivotal role as both a mentor and a Destiny Helper, helping Joy transform her calling into a reality, particularly in caring for those impacted by this deadly scourge. Joy initiated a small-scale baking project to sustain the Joy Rescue Centre, selling cakes to friends, business individuals, and even staff members at Karen Hospital (Nairobi) as a means of encouragement
to persevere.
This is why JRC places a strong focus on combating stigma. The organization aims to empower children living with HIV and AIDS to lead meaningful lives and realize their God given destinies. The Gertrude Children’s Hospital rates Joy Rescue Centre as exceptional in ARV treatment and care, with some of its children receiving treatment there , Since 2015 To date. The children’s self-esteem and confidence have flourished, as they have had the opportunity to interact with peers, realizing that they are not alone and that there is a light at the end of the tunnel.
THE FOUNDING OF JOY RESCUE CENTRE
Seventeen years ago, despite having a young family, Joy felt called to serve those in need. She initiated the registration process in February 2006, and on May 5th, 2006, in five double-roomed rented premises in Ngurubani Town, Joy received and welcomed the first four kids who were in desperate need of high nutritional care, education, shelter, medical attention, and clothing. From that day onwards, Joy has dedicated herself to providing a loving and nurturing environment. Initially, Joy sustained the children through a small baking project, volunteers, and support from well-wishers, and countless others have joined the institution since then. Currently, Joy Rescue Centre is situated on their own small piece of land in the outskirts of Wang’uru town.
Joy firmly believes in a bright future for all children, knowing that they deserve every opportunity to thrive and succeed, regardless of their circumstances. This belief has been the driving force behind her efforts. Though it hasn’t been easy, witnessing the transformation and growth of these children has made every sacrifice worthwhile. The well-being, education, and happiness of these children remain the utmost priority. We are deeply grateful for the unwavering support and love bestowed upon us by the community and those who have joined us on this mission. Together, let us continue striving for a brighter future for every child, guided by love and compassion on this meaningful journey
FAITH AND DIVINE PROVIDENCE
As Joy reflects through both the challenging and fulfilling countless moments of joy, love, and personal growth that she has shared with these children, Her and the team of staffs dedication to serving vulnerable children remains unwavering. All through JRC has placed it’s complete trust in God, who has sustained us with His Divine Providence. Throughout this journey, It is through this tender love of God to humanity that He sends individuals to us, responding to our unwavering trust in His provision. For those who place their full faith in Him and surrender themselves to His loving care, God never fails.
Therefore, the children’s well-being, education, and happiness continue to be my priority. I am grateful for the support and love I have received from the community and those who have joined me in this mission. May we all continue to strive for a brighter future for every child, and may love and compassion guide us on this journey. Joy’s spiritual journey with the less fortunate in the society, has remained strong due to the strong formation she has gone through as a Lay Carmelite in Kenya. She joined this spirituality in October 2015 to date.