Why do we share stories of our Scholars and Mentors? A story puts an individual face to issues such as women’s empowerment and poverty eradication. A story gives voice to people who are not normally heard. And, stories beat stats – people remember stories more than facts.
There are many organizations working to further girls’ education around the world. They are telling stories, which prove the worth of investing in girls. Sharing our stories puts AfricAid and GLAMI alongside these other organizations on the world stage. What makes us unique is the mentoring we provide to augment the life skills and leadership lessons we teach through our programs, the Kisa Project and Binti Shupavu.
Here are five of our all time favorite stories that are sure to inspire!
Building a Bridge
Neema is a recent Kisa graduate who has always believed strongly in the importance of education for ALL children. There are many obstacles to going to school in Tanzania and Neema helped kids in her community overcome two of them (lack of uniforms and a safe river crossing).
“I will always be out front to help my community because I am the problem solver. The solutions to the problems start with me.”
Saving Herself and Others from Early Marriage
Janeth is only the second girl in her community to reach high school and the first was 21 years earlier. First, Janeth ran away from an arranged marriage in order to become educated. Then, when her 12 year old sister, Alice, was about to marry the same old man, Janeth went back to the village and rescued her too. Alice is still in school.
“My Kisa Mentor gave me confidence and belief in myself that I can fight for my rights and the rights of others like I did for my young sister.”
Creating a Ripple Effect
Kisa and Binti Scholars have a strong desire to share what they’ve learned with siblings, friends, and neighbors. Scolastica was a Binti Shupavu Scholar who worked to keep as many girls from her home village in school as possible. She succeeded… not only did they advance to secondary school, they joined Binti Shupavu! Scolastica continued to help other girls all four years she was in Binti Shupavu. She now awaits the results of her Ordinary Level exams – we can’t wait to see what is next for her! Hopefully Kisa!
“I believe that sharing is caring. I would like these girls to reach their goals, and I would like to reach my own goals of supporting my community, not only in Moshi, but the whole country of Tanzania.”
Climbing to the Roof of Africa
When you have grown up in the shadow of the tallest mountain on the continent, you might never picture yourself standing on top of it. Not true for GLAMI Mentors! A number of them have joined week-long climbing expeditions and experienced this triumph and thrill. This includes Ellie Kaaya, who makes us feel like we are on the mountain with her.
“Just like in life, climbing this mountain has taught us the closer we get to success, the more challenging it becomes, and the more pain we feel. But in the end, it is always worth the fight, struggle, hard work, and patience.”
Earning Advanced Degrees
Kisa and Binti Mentors are outstanding role models for their Scholars – they are inspiring, living examples that “learning never stops.” In 2020, Aikande Muro (pictured in pink at top), Sarafina Kifaru, and Subira Manyama all pursued Masters degrees in Monitoring & Evaluation. Not surprisingly, all three are Kisa Alumnae. While they are bettering themselves, they will also be able to contribute more to the organization.
“Always chase after what you believe will change your life. Do not sit and wait for a chance to come to you. It takes a lot of time and effort to become who you want to be, but be patient and stay focused.”
Read Aikande and Sarafina’s Stories
AfricAid works to improve the standing of women in society through robust, locally-led mentorship initiatives that cultivate confidence, improve academic and health outcomes, and promote socially-responsible leadership skills. In close partnership with our sister organization, GLAMI (Girls Livelihood and Mentorship Initiative), we support mentorship opportunities that help secondary school girls in Tanzania complete their education, develop into confident leaders, and transform their own lives and their communities.
Are you inspired? Here’s how you can act.
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