As we step into the second quarter of 2025, we’re excited to share some of the great highlights made in the first three months of the year. Every achievement reflects your continued support and our shared commitment to protecting, empowering, and advocating for children and youth with albinism in Tanzania.
Empowering Students Across all Levels of Education
Primary School: Standing in for Families, Standing Up for Kids.
Many parents of students with albinism are unable to visit their children at school due to economic hardship or other reasons. This quarter, our team stood in for parents during school visitation days, ensuring our students felt celebrated, supported, and included, just like their peers. These simple moments of connection help nurture confidence and belonging in our youngest students.
Secondary School: A Season of Achievement and Joy
In February and March, we proudly celebrated 26 students graduating from advanced secondary school, now poised to enter university. These graduations are more than academic achievements, they represent resilience and hope.
We also received national exam results from Form Four (Ordinary Level):
- 8 students earned Division I,
- 2 students earned Division II,
- 2 earned Division III, and
- 4 earned Division IV.
These strong outcomes reflect the impact of safe learning environments and consistent support.
Mentorship That Builds Confidence and Vision
To equip students facing national exams in 2025, we conducted mentorship and training sessions focused on managing exam stress, setting career goals, and understanding the evolving Tanzanian curriculum. These efforts directly support our mission to empower youth with albinism to thrive academically and advocate for themselves.
Supporting Higher Education and Career Readiness
Career Launch Program:
- 13 recent university graduates joined our three-day Pre-Employment Training in Dar es Salaam.
- Each received interview coaching and a career launch allowance to support job search costs.
- These efforts smooth the transition from school to work, where our grantees often face discrimination and economic barriers.
We also trained 15 third-year students in employability skills, giving them a head start on building professional confidence and readiness.
Placement Wins:
We’re thrilled to report that two graduates have secured employment. One earned a position in a government role, and another in a private company. Additionally, two other graduates have landed internships. Every success story here reflects the power of targeted preparation and encouragement.
Beyond the Classroom: Advocacy, Wellness, and Dignity
Changing Minds, Changing Communities
Our advocacy team reached 7 schools, 2 colleges, and 2 villages, educating over 5,100 participants (including teachers, staff, and students) about the truths of albinism. This work breaks down dangerous myths, reduces stigma, and builds safer communities for children with albinism.
Healthier Students, Stronger Futures
This quarter, 45 college and university students took part in a health and behavior training focused on the link between wellness, academic performance, and career growth. Topics included stress management, mental wellbeing, and healthy habits, which are vital tools for students with albinism who face unique physical and social challenges. Equipping them with these skills supports both their resilience and long-term success.
Skin and Eye Care for Students:
All 31 grantees from the Lake Zone schools received vital dermatological care through a Standing Voice skin clinic, along with sunscreen for protection. They also received specialized eye care from an optometrist, ensuring that health doesn’t stand in the way of learning.
