When the Unthinkable Happens

Dear RefuSHE Supporters,

It is with great sorrow that we write with devastating news. RefuSHE’s CEO, Geoffrey Thige, passed away suddenly on August 22, 2021 in Nairobi, Kenya. Like you, RefuSHE’s Board of Directors and staff are in shock. And like you, the Board is questioning what next, when the unthinkable happens?

Geoffrey knew exactly what to do when he was faced with the unthinkable and the impossible – he stood tall, believed deeply, and moved forward with unmeasured compassion, unshakable ethics, and a fundamental commitment to our mission. To honor Geoffrey’s legacy and visionary leadership, we seek the strength to unite together with our partners and carry forward the transformative work he led at RefuSHE.

It is hard to reconcile that Geoffrey, a person who had so much to give to this world, has been taken away so young and too soon. We are determined that we, along with our incredible staff and community of supporters, will honor Geoffrey’s legacy. We know that Geoffrey will be with us in memory; his steadfast commitment to RefuSHE gives us the courage and strength to continue serving refugee girls and young women with the same dedication and integrity that he brought to his work.

The Board is overseeing all aspects of this unexpected situation and working closely with the RefuSHE team. We will communicate additional updates with you as we navigate our leadership transition. Meanwhile, our staff is working diligently to ensure that day-to-day operations continue without interruption in Kenya and the US. For anyone who wishes to extend their sympathies directly, please reach out to Dina Dukhqan, RefuSHE’s Managing Director.

We extend to Geoffrey’s family, his wife and beloved children, and each of you (after all, as he often said, at RefuSHE, we are family), our sincerest condolences during this trying time.

Sincerely,