Julie Weche, a dedicated educator from Kenya, has been making an impact in the United States with her remarkable work. She is the founder and owner of Elimu Tutoring Centre in Baltimore, Maryland—a center that not only provides tutoring services but also creates a vibrant sense of community for the city’s large Black population, including around 15,000 Kenyans.
Weche’s educational journey began at Kenyatta University in Nairobi, where she completed her undergraduate studies. She then advanced her expertise by pursuing further education at the University of Maryland and Alberto University in Canada.
After finishing her studies, Weche embarked on her teaching career in Kenya before moving to Botswana, where she served as the director of the University of Botswana’s Early Childhood Learning Centre.
Weche’s passion for working with children and her wealth of experience in education led her to Baltimore. In 2016, she expanded her mission by launching Elimu Driving School, an extension of the Elimu Tutoring and Training Center.
When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, Weche faced significant challenges. In 2020, Maryland Governor Larry Hogan ordered the closure of many small businesses, including Elimu Tutoring Centre, as part of efforts to conserve revenue. This prompted Weche to pivot her business model, transitioning to mask-making and launching a community initiative to counter the pandemic’s effects.
The Kenyan community in Baltimore responded to Weche’s call for support. Alongside her husband, Tom Mwaura, she launched the Okoa Elimu Programme, a fundraising initiative that quickly raised over Ksh 3.5 million within two weeks, enabling the center to recover and continue its mission.
In response to the pandemic, Elimu Tutoring Centre adapted by offering online programs. When restrictions eased in June 2021, the center resumed its operations and began hosting low-cost events, such as weddings and fundraising activities for the Kenyan community in Baltimore, further solidifying its role as a vital resource.
