This month, we're excited to highlight our interns from the US and Tanzania. Their internship, which took place from June to September, was filled with meaningful contributions and unique experiences at the Sasamani Foundation. Each intern brought a fresh perspective, dedicating their time and skills to furthering Sasamani's mission. Join us as we explore the interns' amazing experiences.
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Discovering Sasamani and Embracing the Mission
For many of our interns, joining Sasamani was an opportunity to connect deeply with the foundation's mission of empowering students and communities. Whether they are working on educational initiatives, engaging with local partners, or supporting Sasamani's strategic growth, each intern has experienced first-hand the foundation's impact and the dedication behind it.

​"Our journey with Sasamani has been nothing short of transformative. The internship has empowered us to step outside our comfort zones and engage with the vibrant community around us. We are grateful for the invaluable experiences we gained not only through teaching in local schools and exploring Tanzania's rich culture but also through participating in various Sasamani programs. This hands-on experience allowed us to apply what we learned in college practically, deepening our understanding of community development and empowerment. This opportunity has inspired us to pursue our passions with confidence and opened our eyes to the power of service and connection. Here's to a future filled with endless possibilities, fueled by the knowledge and relationships we've built during this remarkable internship!"

For more than a decade, Pili has been an integral part of the Sasamani Foundation, crafting uniforms for sponsored students with unmatched dedication and skill. Her work not only provides high-quality garments for students but also plays a crucial role in uplifting her community and inspiring future generations.

Overcoming Challenges
Despite facing economic challenges, Pili remains resilient. "I face the challenge of a low economy; many clients in my area are from low-income households, making pricing a challenge," she explains. "By maintaining positive energy and a professional stride, I cope and remain bold in my job."

Empowering Through Partnership
Pili's partnership with Sasamani has had a profound impact on her business and personal life. "Being assigned to make uniforms and being paid on time has had a major impact," she says. "The payments help support my children's education and address some home challenges. Empowering other women tailors with skills as part of the partnership requirement makes me feel fulfilled and happy."

Future and Aspirations
Pili has ambitious plans for the future of her tailoring business. "I plan to expand and create unforgettable brands, contributing to society and achieving my ambitions," she shares. "I am working closely with the government to ensure I have all the permits needed for my plans and success." Her vision includes creating lasting impacts through her innovative designs and business practices.

Pili's creativity is her main source of inspiration. "Creativity is my main inspiration, and uplifting others boosts my inner soul," she says. Her dedication to her craft and her community keeps her motivated and passionate about her work.

"I am grateful to be part of Sasamani and help those in need by making their uniforms," Pili shares. "I am proud of who I am and my future plans. It is so rewarding to create new pathways and possibilities!" Her gratitude and pride in her work are evident, making her a true role model in her community.

This month, we're thrilled to feature Siaba, a proud graduate and current ambassador of the Sasamani Education Sponsorship program. Siaba's journey at Sasamani began in 2014 at Kingani Secondary School, and she graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology in 2021. Now a researcher at a renowned health institute in Tanzania, Siaba is also pursuing a Master's degree in Public Health, sponsored by the institute. As a Sasamani ambassador, she inspires and guides Sasamani Education Sponsorship students, showcasing the transformative power of education. Join us as we explore Siaba's remarkable journey.

Discovering the Sasamani Education Sponsorship
"I first heard about the Sasamani Education Sponsorship from my teacher, Mr. Stephen, at Kingani Secondary School. He introduced me to Ms. Gladness, who became a pivotal figure in my educational journey."

Why I Needed the Sponsorship
"From a young age, I loved learning, but financial constraints made me worry about continuing my education. The Sasamani sponsorship was a beacon of hope, allowing me to focus on my studies without the constant stress of school costs. I was fortunate to meet Ms. Gladness, who supported my application, and I joined the program in 2014."
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Transformative Changes
"The sponsorship brought about significant changes in my life. Sasamani's support extended beyond the initial years of schooling. With financial assistance, I could afford textbooks and supplies, lifting a tremendous burden off my family’s shoulders and enabling me to concentrate fully on my education."

Thoughts on the Sasamani Education Sponsorship Program
"The most remarkable aspect of the program is the people. The Sasamani team is incredibly supportive, caring about both our education and personal lives. Meeting other sponsored students was also a highlight; it was wonderful to connect with peers who understood my journey. A particularly special moment was when we visited a school, and I had the chance to speak to the schoolgirls. Offering them advice on navigating life's challenges and achieving their goals was an incredibly rewarding experience for me."

Hopes and Aspirations
"I aspire to become a Public Health Practitioner, dedicated to improving the health and well-being of Tanzanians. My education has equipped me with the knowledge and skills to give back to my community and inspire other girls to pursue their dreams."

Sasamani and Empowering Girls
"Sasamani's mission aligns perfectly with my story. They empower girls like me to pursue education and change our lives. I now have the opportunity to become a role model for other girls, demonstrating that anything is possible with education and determination."

Future Hopes for the Program
"Looking ahead, I hope the program will offer capacity-building workshops to help students navigate the Fourth Industrial Revolution. These workshops could focus on career planning and be held two or three times a year, providing students with valuable insights and guidance on their future career paths. This would be an excellent way to prepare us for life after graduation."
Sasamani is an incredible organization making a real difference in the lives of girls here. Thank you for everything!

Best,

Siaba

As the Board Chair of Sasamani in Tanzania, my journey with this remarkable organization has been one of serendipity, personal growth, and commitment to empowering women and girls in East Africa. Reflecting on the path that led me here and the impactful moments along the way, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to contribute to such a meaningful cause.

Embracing Destiny: Sasamani found me rather than the other way around. During my participation in Sasamani's Women Leading Change program in 2018, I first got to know Sasamani. At the time, I was the CEO of the Tanzania Growth Trust. Erica, the Sasamani Board Chair in the US, along with Andy, the founder of Sasamani, approached me about a board position. However, I wasn't ready at the time to fully commit. It wasn't until 2022, when Thea, a Sasamani Board Member in Tanzania, extended the invitation again, that I felt ready and had time to join. Little did I know I would be voted in as Board Chair by the Tanzanian Board. It's a testament to the power of faith and divine timing.

Fueled by Transformation: What fuels my continued dedication to Sasamani's mission is both personal and altruistic. Sasamani played a pivotal role in my personal transformation through Women Leading Change, igniting a passion to pay it forward. Witnessing the tangible impact of Sasamani's programs on the lives of young women and men in East Africa and how they continue empowering women leaders reinforces my daily commitment.

Impactful Moments: One moment that left an indelible impression on me was my participation in the Women Leading Change program in 2018. The journey of personal growth I embarked on, coupled with witnessing other women navigate their leadership paths, inspired me deeply. During the coaching sessions that followed Women Leading Change, I discovered my calling in coaching. had never experienced the power of coaching before the Women Leading Change program. I am now on a path to becoming a full-time coach, thanks to Sasamani's inspiration.

Welcome to the March Edition of Sasamani Impact Stories. In this edition, we feature Beatrice, a Class of '23 Women Leading Change graduate, sharing her transformative journey and the program's profound impact on her life.

Discovering the program was serendipitous, spurred by my husband's mention of it and further encouraged by the glowing recommendation of a program alumna, Lydia. Initially seeking to learn how to lead others, I realized the fundamental necessity of leading oneself first; a lesson I'm grateful the program imparted.

The aspect that resonated most profoundly was self-leadership, a cornerstone of the program that transformed my outlook. Special gratitude is reserved for my coach, whose wisdom and insight continue to inspire me long after the program's conclusion.

Looking ahead, my aspirations are brimming with hope and confidence. Armed with newfound tools, no challenge seems insurmountable. In fact, upon completing the program, an exciting career opportunity presented itself, a testament to the confidence instilled in me.

To anyone considering Women Leading Change, I offer this advice: seize the opportunity. It's not just a program; it's a transformative journey for any woman aspiring to be a change agent, starting with oneself.

Hello, everyone! My name is Zaituni, and I am pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Statistics at the University of Dar es Salaam. My journey with Sasamani began in 2016 when I was in Form Two in Middle School and received sponsorship from the Sasamani Foundation. Today, I want to share my incredible journey with the Tech4All introductory computer course, a program that has significantly shaped my academic and professional path.

Tech4All's Unique Approach - What I think sets Tech4All apart is the commitment to providing innovative educational tools and access to these tools. The program's staff goes above and beyond to enhance the learning experience for Sasamani education sponsorship students, creating a conducive environment for growth and development.

Future Plans - Armed with the knowledge gained from Tech4All, I have ambitious plans for the future. For my future dream of being a statistician, I am particularly excited about Microsoft Excel. Proficiency in Excel is a fundamental skill that every statistician should possess, and Tech4All has equipped me with this vital tool. Additionally, I aspire to visit different internet cafes, broadening my exposure to the digital world.
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Welcome to the inaugural edition of Sasamani Impact Stories! Each month, we feature the story of a beneficiary or partner of Sasamani, shedding light on their unique experiences, perspective and contributions. We are thrilled to showcase the remarkable perspective of Madam Tumaida, a passionate middle school mathematics teacher at Dunda Secondary School in Bagamoyo, and a proud partner of Sasamani. In this interview, we delve into her insights on the impact of the Sasamani Education Sponsorship program.