Canadian Registered Massage Therapist Yvonne Poulin founded the African Touch in 2003. It began with a vision of empowering people less fortunate through vocational training in the career of therapeutic massage. While there was a market demand for properly trained therapists in hotel spas and safari lodges in Kenya; marginalised individuals from Nairobi's slums eagerly awaited opportunities to become employed.
Upon successful completion of a pilot project and an apprenticeship-training program, the African Touch became registered as a Non Governmental Organization in Kenya, and an Education Fund Non-Profit Society in Canada.
Fundraising, curriculum and organizational development were supported by a Canadian Federal Grant, the first province-wide Massage for Africa campaign, and countless volunteer hours.
The Canadian Association of Massage Therapists and Wholistic Practitioners approved a curriculum submitted by the African Touch Massage Academy Project.
Within six years several intensive training programs were completed with the following organizations:
Kenya Institute for the Blind Nairobi, Kenya
The Kenya Performing Arts Group Nairobi, Kenya
Mrembo Spa Zanzibar, Tanzania
Zanzibar Serena Zanzibar, Tanzania
The Hands Across Borders Society Zanzibar, Tanzania
Ngare-Sero Lodge Arusha, Tanzania
In May 2009 The African Touch Education Fund Society renewed its objectives of empowering those less fortunate under a new Board of Directors.
