Three and a half years ago, we introduced Stumai “Mai” Simba. A member of the Kisa Class of 2011-13 from Arusha Secondary School, Mai is a powerhouse. She is living proof of the confidence that the Kisa Project builds and the success that the extra-curricular…
Reflections on the First Time I Read a Book End to End Malala Day is July 12. We all know and respect Malala Yousafzai for her dedication to education and women’s rights. Her passion shaped her to become confident, courageous, and a good public…
This is a question that comes up a lot in the girls’ education arena. If the status quo about the value of girls in society is to be challenged and improved, shouldn’t boys be involved as well? How can the attitudes of boys and men…
A joyful milestone step for over one thousand 2019-2021 Kisa Scholars In April and May, 2021, at 27 schools across Northern Tanzania, very special graduation ceremonies were held. Speeches, singing, dancing, and cake marked the end of two amazing and especially challenging years for…
It doesn’t always have to be about me, but rather me and my community. Langasani Secondary School in Northern Tanzania is a place away from city noises where hot weather is the norm. It is also a place where new stories are written and…
In East Africa, there is an endearing practice in how mothers are addressed. The best way to explain is by example. Director of Programs for Girls Livelihood and Mentorship Initiative, Devotha Mlay, has two daughters, Delyth and Delyn. Depending on which child is being referred…
Teenagers in Tanzania experience all the same stress as their counterparts around the world. They deal with academic stress, expectations of their parents, friendships gone awry, and finding their purpose and direction in life. On top of the usual adolescent angst, they often experience challenges…
“The mental health sessions helped me understand how minds work. Our mind is the important part of the body – it is through our mind where feelings like pain, happiness, and sorrows are exposed. We learned how to reason with others and not judge them.”…
The 2 Day Challenge has been a key part of a Kisa Scholar’s experience almost since the program began over 10 years ago. During this capstone community service activity for the Kisa Project, the Scholars synthesize all that they have learned, putting to practical use…
A large group of adolescent girls called Kisa Scholars gather in a classroom at their secondary school in Northern Tanzania. They are waiting for their bi-weekly extra-curricular program to begin. In walks a young woman. Their Mentor is poised and her hair and dress are…