On August 24, 2024, UPLIFT Academy hosted a BBQ party at Alaaka Association for the students who participated in our programs at Masjid Fallahee and Alaaka. Around 25 students joined us for a day filled with reunion, joy, appreciation, and learning.

Following the BBQ, two of our students delivered heartfelt presentations about their recent educational humanitarian trip to Tanzania, organized by Embrace Relief. Aliaaa Abdallah, one of the presenters, shared, “The trip taught me the importance of appreciation and gratitude because there are people around who are lacking the opportunities we have.” She continued, “During this humanitarian trip, I had the privilege of visiting orphanages where I met children, played with them, and provided them with gifts. I also had the honor of opening a water well and helping those in need.”

Yasin Ibrahim, another participant, reflected on his experiences:
“While in Tanzania, I had the privilege of being part of the opening of two water wells. I also visited an orphanage where I contributed to the community by planting seeds and playing games with the children. The experience was deeply fulfilling, and I’m grateful to have had the opportunity to give back. None of this would have been possible without the incredible support from Embrace Relief and UPLIFT Academy, who made this trip a reality.”

Yasin echoed Aliaaa’s sentiments on gratitude, adding, “My biggest takeaway from this journey is the importance of gratitude. I’ve come to realize how blessed I truly am and how essential it is to always be in a state of appreciation for the things I have.”

The event was not only a celebration of the hard work and dedication of our students but also an opportunity for them to reflect on their personal growth and experiences.