Who We Are
REFi Gives is more than a charity — it’s a movement built on dignity, opportunity, and hope. We believe true transformation doesn’t come from handouts but from empowerment. Our mission is simple yet profound:
To replace dependency with dignity by equipping people with trade skills, financial literacy, and opportunity.
From our shoemaking school in Kenya to our growing community initiatives across Africa, we are creating a ripple effect of change — one
that starts with skill and ends with generational impact.
Our Work in Action
Our Story
REFi Gives was founded by Roger Godwin, whose journey began after witnessing the resilience and struggle of people in developing nations.
While traveling through Kenya to teach entrepreneurship, Roger met individuals who were eager to work but lacked opportunity. What he saw inspired a simple truth:
“People don’t need more handouts — they need tools to build their own future.”
Out of that conviction, REFi Gives was born. What began as a small vision has grown into a full-fledged initiative: training cobblers, creating jobs, and restoring purpose to entire communities.
Today, REFi Gives empowers men and women through skill-based education, helping them move from survival to sustainability.
What We Do
At the heart of REFi Gives is our Cobbler Training School — a hands-on apprenticeship program teaching men and women the art and business of shoemaking. Graduates don’t just make shoes; they build livelihoods.
Through our model, each student:
Learns a trade that ensures lifelong income.
Receives financial literacy and business training to manage and grow their earnings.
Works in our community shop to gain experience before launching their own businesses.
We’re already expanding with:
The REFi Shoes Initiative, employing over 30 cobblers.
Trash-for-Shoes Program, where children can earn new shoes by collecting recyclable materials.
Community Empowerment Projects that help families rise above poverty with skill and self-reliance.
Our Impact So Far
30+ cobblers employed
2,000+ shoes made
150+ donated to schools
164 children awaiting shoes
Our Philosophy: Dignity Over Dependency
Our Future Vision
REFi Gives is just getting started. Our goal is to:
Expand our Cobbler School to train 20+ students per session.
Develop a wholesale supply chain for affordable shoe materials.
Launch a Women in Work Initiative, equipping women with trade skills for independence.
Replicate this empowerment model across Africa — starting with Uganda and Tanzania.
Join Us
Together, we can create a world where dignity replaces dependency, and every person has the tools to build their own future.
Your support provides skills, jobs, and hope that last for generations.