Empower the people and communities of the Maasai Mara
Through education and community events we support the exceptional Maasai people and community
Our Solution
New possibilities. New traditions
Education leading to employment has been at the core of Karen Blixen Camp Trust since the beginning in 2012.
We know that by providing education we help both the people and wildlife, as we offer a different path than e.g. poaching.
It started with a Culinary Arts School. Today our work comprise an Automobile Mechanics School as well as a school for IT and Entrepreneurship and a language program. Furthermore we're behind a football tournament and involved in a project to hinder female genital mutilation.
Project start: 2012 · Status: Active
The Culinary Arts School
Our 18-month Culinary Arts program trains aspiring young chefs for professional careers in Kenya's top safari camps and restaurants. With a focus on excellence and a requirement of at least 40% female students, the school fosters both skill and gender equality. The program's success is undeniable: an incredible 100% of our 90+ graduates have secured jobs within two months of completion.
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Project start: 2024 · Status: Active
Automobile Mechanics School
The KBCT mechanic project began with a wish from the local community for an alternative to the catering school. In the Masai Mara there are approximately 3,000 vehicles, the majority of which are Toyota Land Cruisers of the same type. When a vehicle from the area breaks down, it has to be transported far away to reach a proper workshop.
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Partner Projects · Status: Closed
The School for IT & Entrepreneurship
As Kenya's digital economy expands, IT and business skills are essential for success. Our courses in Information Technology and Entrepreneurship are tailored to equip Maasai youth with the tools to thrive. To date, we have empowered over 92 local youth students and 24 camp staff members with these future-proof skills.
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Project start: 2024 · Status: Active
KBCT Football for Mara Rianta
The KBCT Football initiative brings men, boys, and girls together through sport in Mara Rianta. The project creates a safe and positive space for teamwork, confidence, leadership, and community spirit. By supporting local football activities, the Trust helps young people build stronger relationships and feel part of a shared community.
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Partner Projects · Status: Closed
The Language Program
The Language Program follows the theme of “Learning for Life” by empowering students with English and German language skills. Staff of the Karen Blixen Camp as well as members of the local Maasai community are educated in the program. So far 40 students have been given Basic English skills while 23 students have attained the A1 level in German.
Read MoreMeasurable change across the Mara
These figures represent real lives transformed and ecosystems restored. They are the proof of what happens when conservation meets commitment.
Help Protect the
Maasai Mara
Your support helps protect endangered wildlife, preserve vital habitats, and create opportunities through education and community development.
Be Part of the Future of the Maasai Mara
Get in touch
Our co-chairman, Stephen, is always ready to speak with those who want to make a lasting impact on the Maasai Mara - through donations, partnerships, project ideas or other activities.
Stephen J. DeVincent, DVM Co-Chairman
stephen@karenblixencamptrust.org
GET IN TOUCHQuestions about our work
Find answers to the most common questions about our projects, partnerships,
and how we're working to protect the Maasai Mara.
How does the Karen Blixen Camp Trust protect the Maasai Mara?
We work across three connected areas: wildlife and habitat conservation, and empowering the local Maasai community through education, so that protecting the ecosystem and building livelihoods go hand in hand.
How can I support your work?
You can donate directly, become a partner organisation, or get in touch about volunteering and project ideas - see the Donate button or our Contact page.
How are donations used?
Donations fund our education programmes (the Culinary Arts, Automobile Mechanics, IT and Language schools), community initiatives, and wildlife/habitat conservation work in the Maasai Mara.
Who do you work with in the Maasai Mara?
We work closely with the local Maasai community, conservation partners such as the Mara Elephant Project and The MAA Trust, and research institutions - see About Us for the full list of partners.
Can I visit or experience your projects?
Yes - reach out via our Contact page and our team will help arrange a visit to see the schools and community projects in person.
