Empowering Generations: Celebrating Mother's Day Through Volunteering at the SEGA Girls' School
As we celebrate Mother's Day, we're thrilled to introduce heartwarming narratives of kindness and sisterhood experienced while volunteering at the SEGA Girls' School. Over the past few years, we've witnessed mother-daughter duos volunteer at SEGA through our service-learning initiatives. Among them are the extraordinary experiences of Zakia and Zayda, Irene and Nicole, and Katie and Sarah, who volunteered with us for the STEM Adventures at SEGA and English Fluency Programs. We are happy to share their tales of volunteering and the joy of giving back at the SEGA Girls’ School!
Pictured third from the left is Zakia and second from the right is Zayda.
Zakia and Zayda:
Zakia and Zayda's journey showcases the power of representation and mentorship in STEM fields. Zakia's pride in being able to connect with the SEGA girls as an African-American scientist highlights the importance of role models. Zayda's admiration for the students' work ethic and independence highlights the shared nature of volunteering, where both volunteers and recipients learn and grow together. Their commitment to continue volunteering reflects a shared passion for making a difference.
Zakia shared her perspective: "Volunteering at the SEGA Girls’ School in Tanzania was an empowering and transformative experience. Their love was palpable. It was an overwhelming and deeply fulfilling experience; I take away a strong desire to continue this impact for all youth." Zayda added, "Their independence and discipline left me in awe and served as a personal reality check, inspiring me to adopt a more structured approach."
Irene and Nicole:
Irene and Nicole's experience paints a picture of cultural exchange and personal growth. Their trip to SEGA was about teaching, forging meaningful connections, and understanding different perspectives. Nicole's active involvement in raising awareness back home demonstrates the ripple effect of volunteering, inspiring others to join the cause and support the dreams of SEGA girls.
Reflecting on their trip, Irene remarked, "Visiting SEGA was one of the best trips we've done together, shaping perceptions of what is important in life and offering an appreciation of what happiness can mean in different places." She added, "We know we will go back to Africa. In the meantime, my daughter is working via a new SEGA school club to spread awareness and find support that will benefit the SEGA girls in reaching their dreams!"
Katie and Sara:
Katie and Sara's adventure exemplifies the transformative nature of volunteering and the special bond that can form between mothers and daughters through shared experiences—their collaborative teaching approach, blending complementary skills and perspectives, enriched both the volunteers and the students. Sara's reflections on the joy and laughter shared with the SEGA girls highlight the profound impact of human connection and the simple moments of happiness that transcend borders.
Katie reflected, "This trip was transformative for me. And to be able to share it with my daughter was an experience like no other!" Sarah added, "The laughter I remember from those two weeks has stuck with me long past my return. They supported one another day after day. They showed up to chase their dreams, and I am eternally grateful that my mom and I got to be a small part of their story at SEGA."
Overall, these narratives remind us of the beauty of compassion, empathy, and the power of intergenerational collaboration. As we celebrate Mother's Day, let us draw inspiration from these remarkable duos and strive to create a world where every girl has the opportunity to thrive and reach their full potential.
Join us in spreading the joy of volunteering and making a difference in the lives of young women at the SEGA Girls' School. Whether through our volunteer program or starting a school club, you can empower girls to reach their full potential. Learn more about how you, too, can make a difference and join our mission today!