How it all started

Lindsay’s journey started with a simple goal: to find herself and a deeper meaning in life. That search led to something incredible — creating a school that now provides free education to 270 children. This is her story, from those first steps of self-discovery to building Eco Moyo and making a difference in so many lives.

"My journey began in my late 20s, while I was working on a reality TV show in Greece. On paper, I had everything I’d worked for—three years of film school, a job in the industry. But something felt deeply wrong. Was this really it? Wasn’t there more I could contribute to the world?

In search of answers, I quit everything and began traveling. I hoped the distance would offer clarity, but instead, I found myself more lost than ever. When I finally returned to Norway, I hit rock bottom. I spiraled into a deep depression and was eventually hospitalized. During that painful period, I had a realization: I needed to shift my focus away from myself and toward others. That shift in perspective led me to Kenya.

In 2012, I arrived at an orphanage in Mombasa through a personal connection. I wasn’t there to "save the children of Africa." I was there to try to save myself. Volunteering—doing chores, spending time with the kids—brought me a sense of purpose I hadn’t felt in years. Their warmth, combined with the structure of the daily routines, helped me begin to heal. I was also on medication, but what truly lifted me were the children.

Unfortunately, after some months, I discovered corruption within the orphanage. Disillusioned, I had no choice but to leave.

Shortly after, I met a group of children who were not attending school. I began asking questions—and what I learned disturbed me. Government schools were overcrowded and underfunded. Private schools were far too expensive. These kids were simply left out. I felt an urgency to do something.

Looking back, it might seem like madness, but at the time, the solution felt clear—I needed to start a school. Not just any school, but one that incorporated sustainability and hands-on learning. Having just completed training in permaculture and natural building, I was full of ideas and energy. My mission was clear: to create a top-tier, environmentally friendly school for children from underprivileged families. And so, Eco Moyo was born. "Eco" represents ecology, and "Moyo"—Swahili for heart—symbolizes love and care for the environment.

With support from friends and family, we gathered materials, hired teachers, and rented a small facility in Mombasa to get started. Around this time, my close friend, Norwegian street artist Martin Whatson, was gaining international recognition. He used his growing platform to support Eco Moyo, and thanks to his generosity, we were able to purchase a 10-acre plot of land further inland—away from the chaos and pollution of the city. While our school director Asumptor managed the daily operations in Mombasa, my partner at the time, Lee, and I focused on developing the new site. We lived in a basic mud house, with minimal solar power and water delivered by motorbike. Life was simple and tough—but the vision kept us going.

In parallel, I worked tirelessly in Norway to raise awareness and support. Slowly, doors began to open. The Oslo School of Architecture joined the project, designing and funding the construction of our first classrooms. Students from around the world traveled to Kenya to collaborate with local craftsmen, building beautiful and functional learning spaces. Soon after, NTNU (Norwegian University of Science and Technology) joined with a building workshop, and Architects Without Borders and Engineers Without Borders helped us develop a long-term master plan—collaborations that continue to this day.

To support myself financially, I worked as a land surveyor in Norway every summer. For the first five years, I took no salary from Eco Moyo. I received a modest salary for two years, but today I once again volunteer my time.

Meanwhile, Martin’s support only grew. Together with his friend, art historian Fredrik, he launched the Eco Moyo Auction—an online art auction featuring donated works by international street artists. These auctions became a lifeline for our funding. Without them, we simply wouldn’t be where we are today.

In 2017, the first group of children from our original Mombasa school moved to the new site as boarding students. From that point, we expanded year by year—constructing buildings, welcoming more students, and building a strong foundation.

Children from the surrounding village, many of whom had never been to school before, now had a place to learn and grow. Thanks to our global network of supporters, Eco Moyo began offering not just free education, but daily meals, school uniforms, and a range of extracurricular activities—from art and football to taekwondo and carpentry.

Today, Eco Moyo is more than just a school—it’s a safe haven, a community hub, and a place where children can dream big.

We currently serve 200 primary school students and provide secondary school support for 70 older students in the area. Our team includes 22 dedicated staff members, many of whom come from the local community.

Looking back, I’m overwhelmed by how far we’ve come. And deeply grateful—to every friend, artist, volunteer, and partner who has believed in this vision. The journey has been long, and at times difficult—but it has always been worth it.

And the best part? We are still growing!