Meet the Founder: Brianna Thomas
The seeds of Protopia were sown long before the organization was born. It began with two defining influences: the enduring legacy of her grandmother, Wilma Jean, and the profound resilience of her daughter.
Fun in the Sun Events
We host big Fun in the Sun events in Nairobi, Kenya twice a year to support children with talents. Our biggest hope is to inspire and motivate the next generation to dream big and believe in themselves.
"The sky is only the limit if you can't see past it"
A Legacy of Giving
Growing up, Brianna's summers were defined by "Fun in the Sun"—a local gathering where children could find joy and receive the school supplies they needed to succeed. This beautiful tradition was created by her grandmother, Wilma Jean.
After her grandmother passed away, Brianna felt a calling to keep that spirit of community alive. She envisioned a "master plan" that would combine her professional drive with her deep, lifelong love for Africa—its music, its heart, and its people.
Born from Resilience
The final spark for Protopia came during a period of immense personal challenge. When Brianna's daughter was born at just 22 weeks, the family found refuge through the Ronald McDonald House Charities.
The kindness they experienced during their time in the NICU ignited a fire in Brianna to do something "big for the world." She knew she had to pay forward the compassion that had carried her family through their darkest days.
"The kindness we received during our NICU journey ignited a fire to do something big for the world."
Based in
Nairobi, Kenya
Why Kenya?
Driven by a desire to give back to a continent that she felt a soulful connection to, Brianna focused her research on East Africa. While exploring the needs of various nations, Kenya stood out.
With its developing infrastructure and status as a welcoming hub for international NGOs, Kenya became the clear choice for Protopia's inaugural projects. Today, Brianna is bridging the gap between her roots and her vision.
Our Mission
To empower, support, and restore dignity to underserved communities—especially children with disabilities, those in foster care, and survivors of domestic abuse—through compassionate programs, advocacy, and life-changing experiences rooted in hope and healing.
Our Vision
A world where every child and every family, regardless of their circumstances, has access to love, care, and opportunity—where hope is restored, voices are heard, and communities rise together through collective support and transformation.