Arms Around the World

In 2001, a UNC-Chapel Hill student, a widowed nurse, and a community organizer came together around a shared vision to empower youth in slums. With just $26, they opened a health clinic and launched organized soccer programs in Kibera, one of the world's largest slums. What began as a grassroots effort has grown into an organization recognized as a Time Magazine and Gates Foundation Hero of Global Health that reaches more than 200,000 people each year through sports, healthcare, education, girls' empowerment, and workforce development. In partnership with the CDC, CFK Africa operates one of the world's leading infectious disease surveillance platforms, strengthening global health security.

This special evening celebrates 25 years of CFK Africa's growth and honors The Sall Family, recipients of the CFK 2th Anniversary Arms Around the World Award. This event also serves as the U.S. launch of Still, I Rise: Stories of Resilience from Teenage Mothers in Kenya's Slums. Created by teen mothers themselves, this powerful book shares personal stories of courage, perseverance, and hope in the face of extraordinary challenges. 

Proceeds from the book support CFK Africa's Girls Empowerment Program, helping young women access education and job opportunities. Funds raised will support the expansion of CFK Africa's Youth Development Network, which aims to digitally connect, educate, and help employ one million young people across East Africa by 2031, scaling from its current reach of 50,000.


Join Us

Join us for an unforgettable evening of culture, community, and connection as we celebrate 25 years of achievement, hear inspiring stories from Kenya, and explore CFK Africa's bold vision to connect 1 million youth across Africa to life-transforming opportunities

Individual Tickets: $500
Table Sponsorship: $5,000

Tickets are limited. Reserve your seat today by clicking the Purchase Tickets link above.

Attire: Festive Formal | Sneakers welcome in honor of our soccer origins


Still I Rise Book


Donate Now

If you cannot attend Arms Around the World, you can still celebrate CFK Africa's 25th anniversary by making a tax-deductible gift. Your support helps expand opportunities for youth across slums in Kenya and empowers the next generation of leaders to build purpose-driven futures.

CFK Africa Empowers Youth in Slums

Recognized as a Time magazine and Gates Foundation "Hero of Global Health," CFK Africa empowers youth in slums through healthcare, education, girls empowerment, sports, & workforce development. It is a US 501(c)(3) non-profit, a Kenya-certified NGO, and an affiliate of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.


Traveling From Out of Town?

Below are links to hotel options in and around Uptown Charlotte, conveniently located near the benefit venue. For a more authentic Charlotte experience, consider staying at the Duke Mansion, Morehead Inn, or the Ivey, all of which are excellent historical hotels.

The Westin Charlotte - 601 South College Street, Charlotte, NC, 28202

JW Marriott Charlotte - 600 South College Street, Charlotte, NC, 28202

The Ivey's Hotel - 127 N Tryon St, Charlotte, NC 28202

The Morehead Inn - 1122 East Morehead Street, Charlotte, NC 28204

Duke Mansion - 400 Hermitage Road, Charlotte, NC 28207

The Ritz-Carlton Charlotte - 201 East Trade Street, Charlotte, NC, 28202

CFK Africa

CFK Africa
Questions? Please contact Nelia Verano.

The Casey by Beau Monde

1837 North Tryon Street, Charlotte, North Carolina, USA

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