About us
Vision
For people to live consciously in harmony with nature
Mission
To provide a nurturing space where individuals and groups can reconnect with nature and themselves through creativity and self-inquiry
Values
Gratitude, Honesty, Creativity
Our story
We, Lindsay and Eirik, are both originally from Norway, however between us, we have spent almost 20 years in Kenya. Our time here has given us a deep connection to the coast in particular, and its culture and sense of community.
With backgrounds in film and fine art, we share a deep passion for creativity - as you might have noticed :)
Kaya is a deeply personal retreat—a realization of our shared dream ;to create a nurturing space for personal transformation, both for individuals and groups. Not to mention, a healing place to just be.
Our home is on-site, where we live permanently, so when you visit, you’ll most likely find us here.
We feel incredibly lucky to connect with the diverse and inspiring people who pass through our little sanctuary.
Karibu Kwetu.
Our amazing staff
At Kaya, we value community.
Our staff are the heart and soul of this place and we simply couldn’t have created Kaya without their dedication, hard work, and incredible spirit.
Some of our team members live on the site, and we stay here as a big family.
Their passion and commitment to make every guest feel at home has been confirmed by many.
Most of them speak English, but they’ll always appreciate it if you try a few words in Swahili!
Our collaborators
Creating Kaya has been a collaborative effort, shaped by many hands and hearts. Fellow artists from around the world have contributed their unique touch, infusing each space with its own distinct character and energy.
The M2 Art Collective in Nairobi and Eirik Jarl have shared a long-standing friendship for over 20 years, along with renowned local artist Mr. Perfect.
Other contributing artists include figurative artist Nduta from Nairobi, Mister Momoshi and Tania from the UK, Halid Njowa, Wicliff and Isaq.
Each of them have left their artistic mark, making Kaya a diverse canvas of creativity.
Our Projects
Kibera Kids Club
For almost 20 years, Eirik Jarl has been dedicated to supporting children and youth in the Kibera slums of Nairobi.
The club provides a safe space where young people can access education, mentorship and creative opportunities to help them build a brighter future.
Visitors are warmly welcome to experience the project firsthand, engage with the children and Amin - the lovely soul who has been the key person through all these years on the ground. His genuine love for children is above and beyond.
Mile 46
The Mile 46 transformation is initiated by Art for Change Foundation in close collaboration with chief Samperu and the Masai community, local schools and M2 Art collective from Kibera.
The project has transformed a Masai village into a vibrant place full of art and creative expression, rejuvenating the place and inspire a sense of pride within the community.
We welcome visitors to visit Mile 46 and join us in the transformation of Mile 46.
Eco Moyo Education Centre
Eco Moyo Education Centre is a grassroots organization dedicated to providing free, high-quality education to underprivileged children in Kenya.
Founded in 2014 by Lindsay Sanner, the school began with just 20 students and has since expanded to support 270 children annually.
The Centre offers free primary education, following the national curriculum and emphasizes a holistic approach to learning. Beyond academics, Eco Moyo provides nutritious meals, school uniforms and a variety of extracurricular activities, including football, Taekwon-do and arts.
Sustainability and environmental stewardship are core values at Eco Moyo. The school's name reflects this commitment: "Eco" is short for ecology, and "Moyo" means heart in Swahili, symbolizing a love for the environment.
The campus features eco-friendly designs with long term collaborations with Architects without Borders and Engineers without Borders
Animals
We love animals, and at Kaya, you'll find plenty of them! From our friendly domesticated cats and dogs to the resident wildlife that calls this place home. A pack of three Colobus Monkeys are frequent visitors, along with Hornbills, Syke Monkeys, Bush Babies, Squirrels, Lizards and more.
Our dogs are part of the family and roam freely—we don’t lock them up, even upon request. They add to the warmth and character of Kaya, just like the rest of our furry and feathered friends. Check out the gallery below and admire all these beautiful creatures!
