THE SPIRIT OF AFRICA CATCHES ON: 2ND ANNUAL SCHOOLS OF AFRICA BENEFIT

On Saturday, November 5, women from a variety of churches gathered for our second annual Schools of Africa Fundraiser. The program was sponsored by the Women's Federation for World Peace and was held at the Metro Detroit Family Church. There was entertainment of lively African dancing and singing; there were moving testimonies and videos. There was a potluck meal featuring dishes from various African nations and from countries around the world. Participants from Africa wore their brightly colored African dress, and the room was decorated with crafts and artwork from several African nations.

A highlight of the program this year was watching the videos from the schools in Africa that have been helped through the donations sent by WFWP USA. Last year we knew we were helping schools through reports from some of the schools that had received donations. But this year was far better. The video of the young people sharing their stories brought the mission to life for those who attended.

The program began with a performance by a group of young ladies who recently moved to Grand Rapids from the Congo, two of whom had arrived just a few days before. They sang and danced for everyone. They were so lively and joyful that some of the audience joined in the dancing, some on stage and some just danced joyfully at their seats.

Testimonies from African students gave a taste of life in three different countries. Epiphanie Kisobele spoke of her experience growing up in Rwanda, the terrible war there, and how she came to America as a refugee. Oretha Kitoko spoke of her life as a student growing up in Liberia, and Claudine Kisele spoke of the life of students in the Congo. From the videos and the testimonies it was clear that young people in Africa want to study and have high hopes and aspirations; and that the work of WFWP to support those students is effective and is making a profound difference for the lives of many young people there. More than $1,300 was raised that afternoon!

At the conclusion of the event Michelle Lindsay, WFWP Chairwoman in Michigan, introduced the host committee. The ladies agreed that it would be good to have more international events involving African and American women during the year. Later we heard that the young people who came liked it so much that they are now planning their own Schools of Africa event in Grand Rapids!

On top of that, one of the performers invited by Michelle was so inspired by the event that she would like to have her own Schools of Africa event in a couple weeks in a different part of Michigan. I am sure we will share more soon.