Trustee team announcement

Mark Garrett with Jim Partridge

We are delighted to announce that Mark Garrett, trustee of SeeKenya since 2018, and long-term supporter of our work, is our new chair of trustees. Jim Partridge (senior leader of the King’s Church Mid-Sussex) is handing on the baton to Mark, and we are immeasurably grateful to him, and his leadership over the past 12 years. We’re also delighted to say that Jim will remain on the trustee team, as we work together to fulfil our vision: to open lives to a better life in Kenya. 

Mark is a mechanical engineer who has worked for many years in the automotive industry and more lately on the new technology of fuel cells. He is married and the father of three grown-up children and three grandchildren.

When asked about how he became a supporter of See Kenya he told us; “I first went on a clinic trip to Meru in Kenya in 2017 and was immediately hooked by the amazing work that SeeKenya does in collaboration with our local partners, EDFRI International. As someone with significant myopia, I recognise just how limited my life would be without quality eye care. On every trip, we can change lives through the dedication, professionalism and hard work of the volunteers. 

I am honoured to have been asked to take up the role of chair of trustees and want to give credit to Jim Partridge for the passionate and wise way he had steered the charity. I am very aware that I have some big shoes to fill. 

My strategy is to focus on three key areas: 

• To expand our supporter base by engaging with dedicated individuals like you, ensuring that you feel deeply connected to the mission of See Kenya. I’m also focused on growing our fundraising efforts to ensure that this work remains sustainable, and fit for the future. 

• I plan to increase the engagement with EDFRI, as we move closer to the realisation of a permanent, working clinic where many of the practicalities of employment, local approvals and running a small business in Kenya require their expertise. 

• Finally, with the other trustees, we are prayerfully considering how wider partnerships in Kenya can accelerate our vision to provide services to a wider community.

As I take up the role, I would ask for your support, both in prayer and financially. On 3rd May, I am taking on the 2025 Ultra Challenge Walk round the Isle of Wight - 52 km distance. I hope my old bones are up for this challenge, and would love you to support my endeavour by giving to See Kenya through their JustGiving page. Your generosity makes a difference and whether it’s a one-off donation or a regular gift, we are supremely grateful for your support."

Jim Partridge said: “It’s been my privilege and honour to lead and serve SeeKenya in this capacity for so many years. Every time I visit Kenya, I am reminded time and again of why we exist, which is why I am delighted to be championing Mark as he steps up to this position. He brings years of experience, and a real heart to serve the people of Kenya."