Living Our Values: How One Colleague Is Changing Lives Back Home

Here at MWW, we often talk about the importance of our values: dedication and loyalty, community and investing in the future. But it’s our people who bring those values to life every day in their communities both here in the UK and overseas. One of our seasonal colleagues, Phelix Odhiambo story is a powerful reminder of the impact that our work can have far beyond the fields and packhouses.

From Kenya to Top Barn: A Journey with Purpose

Since childhood, Phelix dreamed of making life better for girls and vulnerable children in his Kenyan community. He wanted to give them the chance to stay in school, pursue their dreams, and live with dignity. Something many in the area struggle to do due to the lack of basic resources like sanitary products and school fees.

This year, thanks to the seasonal work opportunity at Top Barn Produce (which is part of the MWW family), Phelix is finally turning his dream into reality.

Giving Back with Every Paycheck

Each month, Phelix sets aside 25% of his earnings and sends it back to Kenya via an account dedicated to funding projects in the community. The money Phelix sends every month now supports a monthly sanitary pad donation programme at his former primary and secondary schools, ensuring that none of the girls miss school because of their periods. The money also helps pay school fees for orphans and underprivileged students in the area.

MWW: A Supportive Workplace That Makes a Difference

For Phelix, it’s not just the income that makes this possible. It’s the MWW culture.

He credits the environment at Top Barn Produce for giving him the skills, confidence, and space to thrive. From training and encouragement to respectful guidance, the team’s support has empowered him to grow, both personally and professionally.

“The respect and understanding I’ve experienced here has been amazing,” says Phelix. “We’re given the chance to learn and improve without fear. That kind of environment gives you strength.”

The Ripple Effect of Opportunity

What Phelix is doing speaks directly to what we believe at MWW: when you empower people, they pass it on. The opportunity created by seasonal work in the UK is now creating a ripple effect thousands of miles away, helping to keep girls in school and giving them a sense of dignity and purpose.

A Story of Hope and Shared Impact

As Phelix says, “This job has given me more than just skills and experience. It’s given me the means and inspiration to help others. To everyone at Top Barn, thank you. Your support goes further than you can imagine.”

His story is a powerful reminder that we are all part of something bigger. It’s a story of hope, generosity, and real-world impact, and it shows exactly what it means for the MWW team to live our values.