Educate a Girl, Educate a Nation - Sierra Leone

Education is a powerful tool that transforms lives, and Olivia’s visit to Kamawornie is a perfect example of how sponsorship can make a lasting impact. Olivia is a sponsor through Develop Africa, and she traveled from the United States to meet her sponsored child, Mbalu, and other children in Kamawornie.

Upon her arrival in Kamawornie, Olivia was greeted with excitement and joy. The children sang, danced, and embraced her with open hearts. Meeting Mbalu for the first time was an emotional moment, strengthening the bond they had built through letters and support.

As part of her visit, Olivia, alongside Develop Africa’s program manager, distributed essential school supplies—including pencils, bags, and books—to the Kamawornie Nursery & Primary School. These school supplies brought smiles to the students’ faces, reinforcing the importance of education.

Beyond the classroom, Olivia learned about the local culture. She joined the children in playing games, visited the community, and even enjoyed a boat ride along the Little Scarcies River.  Watch this video to witness the joy, gratitude, and impact of Olivia’s visit to Kamawornie!

This unforgettable visit is a powerful reminder of the impact donors like you have on the lives of children in Sierra Leone. Your ongoing support for girls’ education helps provide not only learning materials but also hope, encouragement, and opportunity. When you invest in a girl's education, you empower her to rise above poverty, lead her community, and create a better future for generations to come.

With heartfelt appreciation,
Amy & The Develop Africa Team

globalgiving@developafrica.org

Links:

• Educate Girls to become Empowered Women
• Video-Olivia's Visit to Kamawornie

Thanks in part to your support, 35 girls took part in a dynamic and empowering mentoring session focused on two important topics: peer pressure and the impact of social media on their daily lives.

The session gave the girls the opportunity to open up about the pressures they face, exchange experiences, and explore practical ways to make confident, values-based decisions, especially when it comes to their digital lives and social circles. This video captures highlights from the day and the inspiring energy these young girls brought to the room. 

Through role-playing, discussions, and group work, the girls learned how to say "no" to negative peer influences and how to use social media responsibly. The girls were divided into four groups and challenged to present what they had learned. Each group covered different angles of peer pressure and online behavior. The presentations were insightful, creative, and full of personal reflections—proof of how much the girls gained from the session. They also gained communication and teamwork skills, which will serve them well in school and beyond.

Educated girls become empowered women—women who uplift families, strengthen communities, and drive lasting change. By supporting their education, you are investing in a stronger, brighter, more equitable future for everyone.

If you haven’t already, please consider becoming a monthly donor. Your recurring support provides stability and helps us reach more girls with the life-changing resources they deserve.

With heartfelt gratitude,
Amy and the Develop Africa Team
GlobalGiving@developafrica.org

Links:

• Educate Girls to become Empowered Women
• Video-Girls Mentoring Session Highlights