A Hopeful Future in Amboseli, Kenya

Nestled in the shadow of Mount Kilimanjaro, Amboseli is a land of vast plains, towering acacias, and thriving wildlife. At its heart are the Maasai people, whose traditions are woven into the fabric of this region. Among them, one leader is paving the way for meaningful community development and cultural preservation: Susan Sintoyia.

Susan, RIDE International’s Program Assistant, grew up in the Amboseli/Oloitokitok region within the vibrant Maasai community. Her life’s work reflects her deep connection to the land, her people, and the traditions that have shaped her. But it’s her ability to imagine a future where culture and progress go hand-in-hand that makes her a force of change.

Rooted in Resilience and Education

Born and raised in the Amboseli/Oloitokitok community, Susan’s story parallels the challenges and triumphs of countless women in Amboseli. Education for girls in rural areas of Amboseli can be difficult to access, often limited by geography, financial constraints, and societal expectations. Susan’s journey to higher education was a testament to her perseverance, supported by scholarships, government aid, and her steadfast belief that education could open doors for her and others. Susan’s journey began in the heart of Kajiado County, but has grown far beyond.

 Despite the challenges faced by young women in rural areas, Susan has pursued her studies with determination. She earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Tourism Management, becoming a rising leader in eco-tourism and environmental conservation within her class. “I’ve been lucky to have the support of my family and scholarships, but so many others face impossible choices,” Susan says. “Education is essential—not just for individuals but for the future of our communities.”

Now, Susan is working to expand those opportunities for others, especially women and youth, while honoring the traditions that make Amboseli unique. She believes education is transformative—not only for the individual but also for families and the broader community. “When a child can read and write,” she says, “they understand their place in the world and can create opportunities for themselves and their families.”

Creating Opportunities Through Culture and Connection

The Maasai people have long balanced their pastoral way of life with their role as stewards of Amboseli’s wildlife and environment. Susan understands the unique challenges of preserving these traditions while adapting to a changing world. She sees tourism not just as an economic activity but as an opportunity for cultural exchange and mutual learning. Working alongside RIDE International, Susan envisions programs that invite visitors to experience the authenticity of Maasai life, from cooking and storytelling around bonfires to learning beadworking from Maasai women. This intricate craft, rich with symbolism and history, provides vital income for many families. Also among future plans, a dedicated marketplace, would offer local artisans access to broader buyers while celebrating their artistry. Susan emphasized the importance of these projects being community-led and respectful of Maasai values. “We don’t just share our traditions,” she explains. “We live them. Visitors become part of our story, and we become part of theirs.”

A Vision for Sustainable Growth

Though RIDE’s plans for Amboseli are in the early stages, Susan’s vision offers a hopeful glimpse of what could be. From game drives showcasing Amboseli’s magnificent wildlife to sustainable beadwork projects and homestay programs, she imagines initiatives that honor the Maasai way of life while creating new opportunities.

Susan is especially passionate about initiatives that empower women and youth. Beadworking, for instance, could grow into a sustainable enterprise with RIDE’s support, providing reliable income for families and funding for children’s education. At the same time, Susan advocates for addressing essential needs like water access, environmental conservation, and education infrastructure. She hopes to see innovative solutions, like RIDE’s sunflower fences to deter elephants, adapted to Amboseli’s challenges.

A Future Built on Collaboration

Amboseli’s challenges, from climate change to limited resources, require collaborative solutions. Susan’s leadership is rooted in listening, relationship-building, and honoring the strengths of her community. By working with RIDE and other partners, she hopes to cultivate initiatives that respect the land, empower its people, and create a sustainable future for Amboseli. Susan’s work reminds us that meaningful change happens when we center the voices and aspirations of those closest to the challenges. In her, Amboseli has a leader who not only envisions a brighter future but inspires others to walk alongside her on that path.