Kumpi Mayu Foundation draws inspiration from Wangari Maathai, a Kenyan environmental and political activist who founded the Green Belt Movement, an environmental non-governmental organization focused on the planting of trees, environmental conservation, and women's rights.  In 2004 she became the first African woman to receive the Nobel Peace Prize. Wangari weaves a story of hope that is inspired by the tiny hummingbird who works tirelessly on behalf of all creatures.

One day, a huge forest was consumed by fire. All of the animals raced out of the forest. As they ran, they became transfixed by the burning forest and felt very overwhelmed and powerless - all except for the little humming bird. And the little humming bird said, "I am going to do something about this fire."  So the humming bird flew to the nearest stream and took up one drop of water and put it on the fire.  Then, quick as a wink, returned to the stream - going back and forth and back and forth as fast as she could.  

In the mean time all the other animals, much bigger animals, like the elephant with a big trunk that could take so much more water - were standing their helpless and saying to the humming bird, "What do you think you can do, you are too little, this fire is too big, your wings are too little…and your beak is so small you can only bring a small drop of water at a time?"  

But as they continued to discourage the little humming bird, it turned to them, without wasting any time, and told them – I am doing the best that I can.