Q&A with Long’ida

In Tanzania, primary school ends at Standard 7, with secondary school beginning at Form 1. In the lead-up to Scholarship Application Days, St Jude’s CSY volunteers and staff complete a massive feat across the Arusha, Kilimanjaro and Manyara regions to deliver invitation letters to students selected to apply for a life-changing scholarship at St Jude’s.

We caught up with alum Long’ida, who traveled with his fellow volunteers to deliver these invitations and support the next generation of bright, ambitious students.

1. What was the most interesting part of delivering the letters to the students?

I would say practicing the skills I learned at St Jude’s. The school focuses on teaching communication skills and we got to meet with people from all different backgrounds while delivering the letters.

• As a CSY volunteer, why do you find it important to give back to the community?

We have been given so much for free. Personally, I’ve been at St Jude’s since 2012 and sometimes I feel like no matter how much we give back, it’s never enough to repay what the school has done for us, so being grateful and contributing in ways like this is important.

• How did the students react when they received their invitation letters?

I would call it happiness. Most of them were really excited about this opportunity to come study at St Jude’s. We even saw one of the parents crying just because their child received the letter. This showed how important this opportunity is for them.

• What is one thing you will never forget about this whole experience?

I remember we met a few Maasai men. Each time we asked them where the schools were located, they told us they were nearby. But we ended up traveling over 100 kilometers from the tarmac road! I will never forget this experience, and I really enjoyed all the moments.

• What can you tell other people who are inspired to give back to the community?

It starts with you! As long as you believe in yourself and your ability to give back to your community, just do it. No matter whether you are going to give back to a small or a large community, just do it without expecting anything in return. Do it while learning and enjoying the experience.