For over 14 years, Barbara Alli, the Ghanaian-Nigerian-born artist, fashion designer, and humanitarian based in Austria, has quietly led a powerful mission of hope, compassion, and consistency for orphaned children in Kisii, Kenya.

What began in 2011 as a simple gesture, sharing a Christmas meal with a small orphanage, has blossomed into a sustainable initiative that now supports over 150 children annually. Through personal dedication and the backing of a growing network of friends, volunteers, and fellow creatives, Barbara has facilitated food programs, clean water installations, school supply donations, and the repair of essential facilities for the children.

“I’m not from Kenya, and I’ve never even been there,” Barbara told This Day. “In many ways, I’m a stranger supporting these children. But that’s the beauty of it. Love and kindness have no borders.”

Her desire to give was born from personal hardship.

At just 16, Barbara and her elder sister were stranded in Togo while travelling to Ghana, without money or help. “My sister asked me to go out and beg. But when I tried, people pushed me away,” she recalled.

Then, an act of kindness changed her life. “I approached a man eating breakfast and explained our situation. Not only did he buy us food, but he also walked us to the bus station and gave us money for the journey. A total stranger. That moment shaped my life forever.”

It is a lesson she has carried with her, especially during challenging times in her own creative journey. “Each time I felt hopeless while pursuing music or building my fashion business, it was mostly strangers who stood by me and believed in my dreams,” she said.

In celebration of the 14th anniversary of her work in Kisii, Barbara hosted the Charity Surprise Market for Kisii, a joyful two-day event held at a private residence in Vienna. The event featured a vibrant pop-up market, live musical performances, tasty refreshments, and Barbara’s signature non-alcoholic summer punch, all provided on a donation basis.

“These children are not just statistics,” she said. “They have dreams, potential, and the right to thrive. We may not be able to change the whole world, but we can change their world. Their fundamental need is food, and that is a basic human right.”

Barbara credits the survival and success of the initiative to her community, the artists, supporters, and volunteers who believe in her mission and continue to donate time, money, and resources. “I’m deeply grateful to my friends and fellow creatives who trust this journey,” she shared. “You make it possible.”

All proceeds from the Charity Surprise Market directly fund the children’s food, education, clothing, and emotional well-being. The initiative also welcomes global donations, proving that distance means nothing when love leads the way.