Samba

The Man, The Legend

Samba has been the heart and soul of this journey. From the very beginning, it was clear I had met someone extraordinary. A true pillar of his community, Samba is constantly looking out for others—whether it’s by distributing rice to families in need or paying school fees for children who might otherwise miss out on an education.

His unwavering commitment has been central to the success of every project we've undertaken: the emergency rice fields, the two wells, the school building, and much more.

Walking through Sanchaba in The Gambia with Samba, it became evident just how deeply respected and loved he is. Over the years, he has taught many of the village’s children—something we didn’t fully appreciate at the time. Today, one of those former students is using their knowledge to help care for livestock, while another has become a doctor who now makes regular visits to support our efforts at Kerr Layen.

Samba now oversees everything—from the cashew fields and the goat herd to the chickens, rice fields, and the new school. His vision and leadership touch every corner of the community.

There are countless stories I could share about Samba, but one that stands out is his dream of opening a school of his own—a story you can read more about in the School Project section.

Samba, your friendship and your humanity have brought deep meaning and purpose to my life. Thank you—for your heart, your dedication, and your unstoppable spirit. I can’t wait to see where this journey takes us next, and how your beautiful village continues to flourish.

Lee

I suppose that’s me! First, I want to express my deepest gratitude to my family and friends who have given me so much love and support. My role in this journey is only possible because of the stability they’ve provided.

As for myself, I’m a clinical hypnotherapist and a semi-retired wedding photographer. I enjoy running (when my hips allow it) and love the thrill of plunging into ice-cold water—it’s my free high!

I have to give a special mention to my wonderful wife, Lisa, who has patiently supported all of my various hobbies and endeavors. She’s never once complained about the money that has gone toward helping the village, even though I know she’d love a new patio!

I strongly believe that we’ve won the lottery just by being here on this planet, and it’s our responsibility to help those who share this beautiful world with us.

This village has given me far more than I could ever give them.

Mum & DAD

Mum and Dad have supported the village financially from the beginning, spreading the word to the blue rinse brigade. After my beautiful dad passed away, my mum has become my Gambian travel companion, I know how incredible special this is. Every thing I do, is with my parents in mind,

The children from Alfa’s home and the Kerr Layen village adore mum, playing with her hair and just wanting to be near her. My mums real smile comes when in the company of these beautiful Children.

Bryan Osborn

Several years ago, I met a fellow photographer named Bryan Osborn. During one of our conversations, he mentioned that he was sponsoring a schoolchild in Gambia. After another coffee and slice of cake, I was inspired to do the same and began sponsoring a boy named Alfa, Alpha went on to become a Charted Accountant (how amazing is that) . When COVID struck, and Gambia went into lockdown, Alfa and Samba’s village found themselves in desperate need of food. It was Bryan’s remarkable kindness, quick thinking, and decisive action that rallied support to send emergency rice to the village. From there, he spearheaded the initiative to rent land and plant 500 cashew trees, along with a groundnut plantation, which will provide lasting support for Kerr Layen Village for years to come.

I cannot imagine the hardship the village would have endured without Bryan’s humanity. Every future project we undertake will carry his influence at its core. Without him, this incredible journey would not have been possible.