Discover the inspiring journey of Ria Fennema, who moved from the Netherlands to Kenya to support disadvantaged children through Blessed Generation.
"True happiness comes not from wealth, but from helping others."
Ria Fennema, originally a teacher from the Netherlands, left her hometown Hurdegaryp, Friesland, in 2001 to take over an orphanage in Ruiru, Kenya, near Nairobi. In 2004, her husband Fester Medendorp joined her, and together, they expanded their efforts, transforming the orphanage into a comprehensive support system for disadvantaged children. Today, Blessed Generation operates across three locations in Kenya, providing children with education, care, and a future.
Ria regularly shares updates through newsletters, offering insights into the progress of various projects and life at Blessed Generation. She visits the Netherlands once a year—if you’d like to meet her or invite her to speak about her work, please contact Agnes Kuperus, who manages her schedule during her stay.
Join us in transforming lives. Your sponsorship ensures that vulnerable children receive the care and education they deserve.
In 2004, Ria was honored with the Albert Schweitzer Award of Excellence from Chapman University, USA. This prestigious award recognizes individuals who, like Albert Schweitzer, dedicate their lives to serving humanity.
In July 2018, radio producer Zegert van der Linde visited Blessed Generation and interviewed Ria about her work and vision. Listen to the podcast to hear her inspiring story.
We warmly congratulate Ria on receiving a Royal distinction, awarded today in recognition of her remarkable work in Kenya.
Ria, a teacher by profession, first visited Kenya in 2000 as a volunteer at an orphanage during her summer vacation. When the orphanage faced closure a year later, she felt called to take over its management and made the decision to settle in Kenya permanently.
Rien van Ast, Chairman of the Board of Blessed Generation Nederland, shared his appreciation:
“Ria does fantastic work. She saved the orphanage and expanded Blessed Generation Kenya. She now organizes aid across three regions: Ruiru, Malindi, and Nyamira. In these areas, orphans are cared for and poor families receive help in the form of shelter, food, and medicine. Children are also offered education — from primary school through vocational training and even university. The primary school founded by Ria in Nyamira is now among the top 3 in the region, a great achievement.”
Former students are now actively contributing to the development of Kenya — a powerful testimony to Ria’s long-standing commitment and impact.
