Who Is Joann Njeri?

Learn about the person behind Project 11:25

Click-clack - click - clack! The echo of heels marched into the room. Shortly, the heels stopped and the room was filled with a warm voice like hot chocolate on a cold day. A small short figure stood in front of me. Plaid black and white slacks hugged her hips and a dressy top completed her outfit. She glided toward an open chair directly facing me. She chose the chair at the end of the table like a CEO ready for a business presentation. She sat tall, as if a string was tied to the top of her head. Her intense eyes stared into me like lasers. Her hands were folded in front of her waiting for me to start the interview.

Her name was Joann Njeri. She’s a transfer student from St. Louis community college. She received an associate degree in July 2019. Now, Ms. Njeri is actively studying at Scripps Howard school of journalism and communications for her bachelors in communications.

“After I finished my program in Missouri, I needed to choose another program. I applied to Hampton and Spelman and got accepted to both but chose Hampton because they had my major,” Njeri said.

Njeri is a Kenyan native whose passions are simply helping others. She started her non-profit in December of 2018, Project 11:25. Project 11:25 is a non-profit organization with a mission to make a positive impact on the community by assisting individuals with various needs through service and mission projects. Project 11:25 dedicates its mission toward people who are less fortunate and minority groups in communities. They strive to provide basic essential needs and is an growing organization.

Project 11:25 has completed two missions since its kick-off in 2018. The first was completed in 2018. Njeri made a total of 150 blessing bags for the homeless people; these blessing bags included basic everyday needs. 75 bags went to men including deodorant, tooth brushes, toothpaste and wipes. Another 75 bags went to women including deodorant, toothbrushes and paste, wipes and sanitary napkins. She simply drove around and gave out these blessing bags to homeless people she saw.

The second mission was completed this past January, she was able to do a clothing drive and provide ten bags of clothing to the homeless.

“ Having access to doing these things makes me feel good about myself and where I may see it's a part of my daily routine to someone else it’s a privilege. Regardless of any living situation, everyone deserves access to our daily necessities that we often take for granted,” said Njeri.

After her mom moved to the United States in 2000, Njeri followed her footsteps and came to the U.S. with her mom in 2003.

“I’ve always been really big on helping others. I know we live in a world where we are all struggling and I get that 100 percent.”

Everytime Njeri spoke her words were firm. She had a positive and optimistic attitude. She was humble and used her actions to speak for her.

Project 11:25 was inspired by the Bible verse Proverbs chapter 11 verse 25. Njeri’s religious background was the inspiration for her organization. Her mom is a Christian lady that is fully embedded into her religion. Her mom was one of her influences for Project 11:25.

Even with its religious connection Project 11:25 does not only highlight religious followers, 11:25 is a helping hand to all. Joann Njeri is the host to a beautiful and spiritual soul that is motivational and full of light. Her giving spirit is in charge of an organization that is just getting started and has a long journey ahead.

“ The one who blesses others is abundantly blessed, those who help others will be helped. Proverbs 11:25,”

Joann Njeri repeated the verse with a sizable smile on her face.