Educate a Girl, Educate a Nation - Sierra Leone

Part two of our impact stories highlights more voices from Develop Africa beneficiaries—students who are not only gaining an education but also building confidence, communication skills, and character.

Kotarah, a college student and beneficiary, shares how mentoring sessions transformed her personal growth. Once shy and uncomfortable speaking in front of even a few people, she now speaks boldly and confidently in public. Through mentoring, she has strengthened her English speaking and writing skills and improved her time management—balancing academic work with other responsibilities. She credits Develop Africa for helping her grow into a more confident and capable young woman.

Mary Ruth, currently in her final year of secondary school, also reflects on the benefits of being part of Develop Africa. Beyond tuition and school supplies, she emphasizes the life skills she has gained—learning about personal hygiene, character development, robotics, and practical skills like makeup artistry. She recognizes that these opportunities are not common for many young people in her community, and she is deeply grateful.

These stories remind us that education is more than financial support. It is skill-building. It is confidence.

Because of you, these girls are not only attending school—they are developing the tools, mindset, and character needed to shape their futures.

These stories are made possible because of donors like YOU!

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

Links:

• Impact Story-Kotarah & Mary Ruth
• Educate Girls to become Empowered Women

Mattia, a civil engineering student and 10-year beneficiary, reflects on what being part of Develop Africa has meant to him. Through consistent sponsorship—from primary school through university—he was able to pursue the education he once only dreamed about. Tuition fees were covered, school needs were met, and his academic journey remained uninterrupted.

But the support went beyond finances.

Through mentoring sessions, debates, and public speaking exercises, Mattia developed communication skills and confidence he never had before. He shares that before joining mentoring sessions, he struggled to speak publicly. Today, he participates confidently and continues to grow as a leader.

Develop Africa also provides vocational training opportunities, including computer training, tailoring, and other practical skills programs. These initiatives equip young people not only for academic success, but for sustainable livelihoods.

Martha, now a college graduate, also credits Develop Africa’s sponsorship and vocational support for helping her complete her education and prepare for her future.

When one student gains education and skills, an entire community benefits.  As Mattia shared, “Develop Africa does not only benefit me as an individual, but also our community.”

Your support makes this long-term impact possible. From primary school to university, from mentoring to vocational training, you are helping build confident, skilled young leaders who are shaping a brighter future for themselves—and for Sierra Leone.

Thank you for investing in education that transforms lives and communities.  Your generosity is not just changing lives; it is shaping the future.

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

Links:

• Impact Story-Martha & Mattia
• Educate Girls to become Empowered Women