“Africa USA Today Magazine” Honors Fannie Smith of WFWP Chicago
The Africa USA Today Magazine (AUTM) , located in Chicago, acknowledged the contributions of Rev. Fannie M. Smith on August 26, 2023 at the world-renowned Du Sable Black History Museum and Education Center. The 8th Annual ATUM Award ceremony is designed to bridge the gap of the African diaspora and work towards a more just and equitable future. This is achieved by supporting initiatives that aim to empower and uplift people of African descent. This includes supporting organizations that provide access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities for people of African descent.
Dr. Olawale Idreez, publisher and founder of Africa USA Today Magazine, graced me with the following words:
“Rev. Fannie Smith, we just wanted to take a moment to express our sincere appreciation for all that you do. Your ministry has truly been a blessing to so many around the world. Your unwavering commitment to sharing God’s love and wisdom is truly inspiring. Thank you for being such a phenomenal woman of God. Your spiritual motivation and guidance have helped me immensely, and I am so grateful for your support. Once again, thank you for all that you do. Your hard work and dedication are making a real difference in the lives of so many.”
My commitment to Dr. Hak Ja Han Moon, founder of Women’s Federation for World Peace (WFWP), and Schools of Africa (SOA) plays an integral role in my spiritual assignment from God and leadership role as the SOA director for five years. WFWP was established in 1992, and succeeded in earning the NGO General Consultative status at the United Nations in 1995. The “Mother of Peace” has encouraged WFWP USA chapters around the country to raise funds by hosting events throughout the year. The schools were originally established by WFWP Japan members who continue to devote themselves to fundraising, overseeing the construction of the schools, often living in Africa to support the school, and taking care of students.
I am always reminded of Mother Moon’s visit to Africa in 2018 and pictures of her standing in the “Door of No Return” at Goree Island overlooking the area where slaves were shackled, separated from families, put on ships and would never return to their home land. She is well aware of racial inequality in the world, just as she and her family were defiled by communist and others, escaped hunger, death, and sought freedom in South Korea. Supporting our ten schools in eight countries in Africa with donations provides brick and mortar for adequate schools, tuition, wells for water, computers, technology, and administrative support to sustain these advancement. Many schools are located in rural areas away from towns.
Although I have stepped aside from the WFWP SOA position, I hope to continue as an WFWP International contact for Carolyn Handshin, Alexa Ward and others to support our international goals for United Nations 2030.
I am grateful, humbled, and encouraged for this honor from Africa USA Today Magazine and Dr. Idreez. I hope to visit Africa and personally see the growth, advancements, and to hear our students and parents’ testimonies. We are so proud of the various professional positions and jobs acquired as a result of our support for these deserving students. Most important is their relationship with the almighty savior of the world.
Rev. Fannie M. Smith,
WFWP Schools of Africa Director (Emeritus)