Our Story

Leave No Medic Behind (LNMB) was founded in 2017 under the Prof. Hassan Saidi Memorial Educational Fund. The initiative was born to honor the late Prof. Hassan Saidi — a teacher, mentor, and surgeon who deeply cared about creating opportunities for underprivileged medical students and ensuring that none were forced to abandon their studies due to financial hardship.

Prof. Saidi grew up under the weight of poverty, which shaped his compassion and mentorship. He maintained an open-door policy, offering guidance to countless students and inspiring them to believe in themselves and aim higher despite their circumstances.

He believed that helping one person could ripple out to many more — uplifting individuals quietly, protecting their dignity, and supporting everyone equally. His kindness extended beyond the University, where he championed educational opportunities for the Nubian community.

Even in his final days, Prof. Saidi remained a mentor. From his hospital bed, he continued to share wisdom and encouragement with his students and colleagues. His legacy remains one of hope, opportunity, and unshakable belief in the potential of others.

LNMB carries forward this spirit — supporting medical students at the University of Nairobi with tuition, accommodation, and meals. What began as a tribute to one man’s kindness has evolved into a movement ensuring that truly, no medic is left behind.
Prof. Hassan Saidi

The Problem

Many bright and hardworking medical students in Kenya face the harsh reality of financial hardship. Despite their potential, some are forced to pause or even abandon their studies because they cannot afford tuition, accommodation, or even basic necessities like daily meals. Behind every struggling student lies a story of dedication met with difficulty, of dreams slowed down not by ability but by circumstance.

This challenge doesn't just affect the individual student — it also threatens the future of healthcare in Kenya. Every student lost to financial barriers is a potential doctor who could have gone on to serve patients, families, and communities in need. The loss extends beyond classrooms and wards; it touches the lives of those who might one day depend on their care.

Equal access to education is not charity — it’s an investment in our collective future.

Dr. Ruby Dina Oswere

Our Response

Inspired by Prof. Hassan Saidi, a group of medical students, lecturers, and doctors came together to create LNMB. Their goal was straightforward: to stand with students in need by easing the burden of tuition, accommodation, and meals so they could focus on becoming the doctors Kenya needs. Through shared compassion and teamwork, they turned an idea into a lasting support system for those who needed it most.

In the early years, LNMB relied on student-centered fundraising, often through the traditional harambee model. While this kept the initiative alive, it was not always sustainable, and the need for a stronger and more dependable approach became clear. Determined to find a solution, the team continued to seek new ways to keep the vision alive and growing.

In 2022, one of the students at the time, Dr. Ruby Dina Oswere, proposed and pioneered a brilliant idea — to raise funds through an Annual Charity Run. The idea took root and has since grown into LNMB’s biggest fundraiser, uniting the community under one purpose and bringing a new sense of hope to the cause.

Today, the Charity Run brings together students, doctors, families, and friends each year in support of a common cause — ensuring that no medical student is left behind because of financial hardship. It stands as a symbol of unity and shared responsibility, a reminder that together we can make sure every dream of becoming a doctor has a fair chance to thrive.

How the Fund is Governed

The Prof. Hassan Saidi Memorial Educational Fund, under which LNMB operates, is overseen by a dedicated Board of Trustees who uphold the Fund’s mission with integrity, compassion, and transparency. Their leadership ensures that every initiative aligns with the shared vision of nurturing medical students and safeguarding the future of healthcare in Kenya.

Beneath this board sits the Charity Run Planning Committee, entrusted with organizing and executing the LNMB Annual Charity Run. The committee is led by Peter Ogutu, Race Director, supported by a passionate team of medical students who pour their energy into ensuring that the event continues to grow and touch lives year after year.

Board of Trustees

  • • Dr. Vinod Guptan
  • • Dr. Thomas Chokwe
  • • Ms. Husna Hassan
  • • Dr. Amina Guleid
  • • Dr. Edwin Walong
  • • Dr. Ruby Oswere
  • • Dr. Bob Anthony

Our Journey

2022

First ever

Launched our inaugural charity run.

2023

Second ever

Expanded reach and participation.

2024

Third ever

Scaled and had even more participants.

2025

4th edition this year

Our latest edition. Join us.