We recently had our first-ever fundraiser in Tanzania. We are 6 months into the launch of our strategic plan and in the middle of a progress report. Therefore, it was the perfect time to throw a “Celebrating Growth” party. One of our Tanzanian Board Members, George Mavroudis, offered to host this event and underwrite it with his sister, Lela Mavroudis at her gorgeous lodge in Usa River Academy, Shangazi House. We are so fortunate to have their support. The location alone was a great draw—a beautiful setting at the bottom of Mt. Meru looking up into the hills.

George is Greek Cypriot but born in Tanzania. He’s seen NGOs (non-profits/non governmental organizations) come and go from Tanzania and joined our Board of Directors three years ago as a result of genuinely believing in TFFT’s work and the power of education. He has seen well meaning people come into the country and try to impart western views and ideals onto a culture vastly different and unwilling to comply, for good reason. He was pleased, as we are proud, to see TFFT is run by Tanzanians who are driven to empower—not enable—using the power of quality education. It is for that reason he wanted to share what TFFT has accomplished with the business community of Arusha and Usa River.

Here is George (and TFFT supporter extraordinaire Katie) with a group of the 16 students we have at Star High:

The event brought together individuals from the safari industry, educators, TFFT partners, the Arusha Rotary Club, and many from the business community. With 120 people in attendance we raised $15,000 and showed our neighbors the impact focusing on quality education can have! I am so grateful that the entire TFFT team was excited to chip in and get involved. They are usually half-way around the world from where we host our events. It was great fun to have them in attendance at TFFT gala for a change!

Not only did our team come together to execute an awesome event that shared our story, both our primary and secondary students did as well! Makumira University’s Music department worked with our students for a couple months to teach them songs and dances to share with our guests. They were kicking up dust having a ball, something that brought smiles and tears of joy onto our guests’ faces.

The secondary students also wanted to be a part of the event. We had 7 of our secondary students get up and proclaim who they are, what they wanted to be and why they were going to succeed. It inspired a handful of people in the audience to commit then and there to help those students achieve their goals. This event has already helped TFFT expand its partnerships throughout the community.

All in all, I am tired but feeling blessed. The fact those who live and work here in Tanzania believe and invested in our work leaves me feeling grateful and encouraged. This weekend will be one I remember for years to come and look forward to hosting it again in February 2015!