About this Event
oin Matthew Norton, founder of the Memusi Foundation and author of An Ordinary Story, for an evening of storytelling, humour, honesty and reflection.
Matthew's extraordinary journey began with an unexpected encounter in Africa and a decision that, at the time, didn't seem particularly significant.
That decision would lead from Yorkshire to Kenya, to classrooms, lifelong friendships, and a movement that has touched thousands of lives.
But this isn't simply a story about Kenya and isn't a story about a charity.
It's a story about all of us.
It's about the extraordinary potential hidden within ordinary people. About the ripple effect of small acts of kindness. And about how a decision that seems insignificant today can change the course of your life - and perhaps someone else's too.
Whether you've read An Ordinary Story or have never heard of it, come and hear what happened when one ordinary person decided to do something.
You might leave thinking differently about the opportunities, relationships and choices that shape your own life.
About Matthew
Matthew Norton is the founder of the Memusi Foundation (1133371) and author of An Ordinary Story: From a Pencil to a Movement.
For twenty years, Matthew has worked alongside communities in Kenya to improve access to education. What began with one unexpected encounter has grown into a journey involving schools, communities, friendships and thousands of people - while teaching Matthew that some of the biggest changes can begin with the smallest acts.
An Ordinary Story
An Ordinary Story: From a Pencil to a Movement tells the story of Matthew's journey in Kenya and the unexpected path that led him to become an accidental charity founder.
Published in December 2025, the book is also available as a podcast series, with the story serialised across all major streaming platforms.
Event venue & nearby stays
Clarke Foley Community Hub, Cunliffe Road, Ilkley, United Kingdom
Concerts, fests, parties, meetups — all the happenings, one place.