From Local Impact to Global Change: CPM Students’ Journey to Tanzania

In Summer 2024, two outstanding students from UPLIFT Academy’s College Path Mentorship (CPM) program embarked on a life-changing journey to Tanzania—a reward for their academic success, leadership, and commitment to community service.

This journey began in February 2024, when the students launched a fundraising campaign to open water wells in rural Tanzania. Working in partnership with Embrace Relief and SKY Academy, they mobilized their peers and communities to raise the funds needed to bring clean water to underserved villages—changing the lives of hundreds of families.

As a result of their dedication, the students traveled to Tanzania to witness the impact of their work firsthand. They visited villages, met local families, and engaged in meaningful service. “The trip taught me the importance of appreciation and gratitude because there are people around who lack the opportunities we have,” said Aliaaa Abdallah, a CPM mentee. “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, also a CPM mentee, reflected on the deeper personal impact: “My biggest takeaway from this journey is the importance of gratitude. I’ve realized how blessed I truly am and how essential it is to always be in a state of appreciation for what I have.”

Upon returning, the students shared their experiences with the other students from UPLIFT’s various programs during a celebratory BBQ on August 24, 2024, at Alaaka Association. Their presentations inspired peers, families, and community members, reminding everyone of the power of education, service, and global awareness.

This Tanzania project is a proud example of UPLIFT Academy’s mission in action—empowering youth from underserved communities not just to succeed in school or gain admission to college, but to become leaders and changemakers far beyond their neighborhoods. As a community service project with real-world impact, it also adds powerful dimension to each student’s college application—demonstrating initiative, compassion, and global citizenship.