Elizabeth Eden

Secretary

Elizabeth Eden was also appointed as a first trustee in 2023. She has a doctorate in linguistics, specialising in phonology (pronunciation systems), and works as a teacher of linguistics and a researcher. She visited Kenya with Jonathan and his family in 2015, and again in 2026.

Jonathan Eden

Founder

The Giriama Fund was founded in 2023 by Jonathan Eden. Having spent many years of his life visiting Kenya, Jonathan has deep roots and connections to the local communities.

Jonathan has made it his ambition to improve the quality of life for individuals living in Kenya and founded the Giriama Fund with a number of objectives; to advance religion, to advance education and to relieve poverty. Over the years, Johnathan has arranged for 7000 bibles to be translated into Giriama and distributed throughout the region. Jonathan has a particular interest in the unique history of Giriama, its culture and language.

Jonathan has also dedicated his time to conserving wildlife in Kenya. He was a trustee of the Eden Wildlife Trust until he retired and passed this role to his son Martin.

Judy Cunnington

Trustee

Judy Cunnington joined Jonathan as one of the trustees of the Giriama Fund in 2023. Judy was born and raised in Kenya before coming to the UK to study Law completing her LLB at University of West London. After completing Legal Practice Course at London Metropolitan University, Judy worked in the pharmaceutical industry for many years. While in Pharma Judy returned to London Metropolitan University to study for her Law Masters. Judy went on to work with local charities as a lawyer and adviser specialising in Family Law. Judy is now retired. In June 2023, Judy visited Kilifi to gather first-hand knowledge and understanding of levels of poverty, educational and religious needs of the Giriama community. To this end, Judy visited schools, colleges, churches, and an orphanage. Judy had previously lived in Coastal part of Kenya and perceives that the level of poverty is now greater in some parts of Giriama community.

Onesmus Mwabonje

Trustee

Onesmus Mwbonje joined Jonathan as one of the first trustees of the Giriama Fund in 2023.

Onesmus was born and raised in the region of Kenya where Giriama is principally spoken, before becoming a research fellow in the department of Natural Sciences, Centre for Environmental Policy at Imperial College, London. Onesmus is currently sponsoring a number of children through their education in Kenya. Having attended school in Kenya himself, Onesmus has an inherent knowledge of the education system and how funds can be used to bring about significant positive change.