Give a gift today: Help our students to reimagine a future filled with possibilities.
In Tanzania, seven out of 10 high school-aged children are not enrolled in senior secondary school. At The School of St Jude, we empower students with the knowledge, skills and confidence to dream big and reimagine a future filled with endless possibilities. Our holistic approach to education nurtures every aspect of a student’s development – encouraging critical thinking, creative expression and entrepreneurial spirit.
Through our programs, students have the opportunity to explore their individual talents, broaden their horizons and reimagine what’s possible – for themselves, their communities and their country. Your support turns this vision into a reality.
Give today: Alum Nadia is now in her final year of a Bachelor of Nursing and Midwifery.
St Jude’s graduate, Nadia, who began her journey in 2007, is a perfect example of this vision in action. Now in her final year of a Bachelor of Nursing and Midwifery, she is giving back to her community as a nurse and midwife, currently completing her internship at Mount Meru Hospital in Arusha. The skills, confidence, and opportunities she gained at St Jude’s, particularly through the English as a Second Language (ESL) program have helped her not only pursue her own dreams but also make a difference in the lives of others.
Will you help our students reimagine what their futures can be?
Standard 7 graduates step boldly into the future
Drums played and smiles stretched wide as Standard 7 students celebrated their graduation this month. In Tanzania, Standard 7 marks the final year of primary school, after which students continue to Form 1, the first year of secondary school.
This milestone represents a new chapter of learning and growth, filled with excitement, opportunities, and the promise of greater challenges ahead.
The next chapter: Our Standard 7 students were beaming with pride at their recent graduation, which celebrated the end of their primary schooling.
This year’s graduation was a memorable celebration, attended by teachers, parents, and invited guests who came together to honor the students’ dedication and achievements. True to tradition, the graduates excelled in the Tanzanian National Standard 7 Examinations, demonstrating their discipline and the strong guidance of their teachers. The School of St Jude has a proud history of academic excellence, with 100% of students passing the National Standard 7 Examinations for the past 14 years.
To mark their success, students, staff and visitors enjoyed a special lunch together, creating a warm and joyful atmosphere that added to the excitement of the day. The graduation ceremony was filled with music, speeches, cultural performances and proud applause as each student was recognized for their achievements.
Roman, a Standard 7 graduate says he is looking forward to taking the next steps in this academic journey, with hopes to join the school soccer team in Form 1.
“I’m excited because I’ll be having new experiences in Form 1. My parents and teachers advise me to put in a lot of effort in my studies every day. I am eager to learn new subjects like biology and chemistry,” says Roman.
Fellow Standard 7 graduate Agape also shared his excitement about moving on to secondary school and exploring new subjects.
“Science and math are my favorite subjects because I want to be a scientist. Learning new subjects like chemistry and mixing up some chemicals excites me. Like other great scientists like Isaac Newton, I want to be a great scientist and be featured in books,” she says.
A day to remember: Attendees were greeted with celebratory cultural dance performances.
A huge congratulations to all our Standard 7 graduates! Your hard work, determination, and achievements inspire us all, and we cannot wait to see the incredible things you will accomplish in the years ahead.
From St Jude’s classroom to the global stage
When John walked through the gates of St Jude’s as an eight-year-old in Standard 1A, no one could have predicted just how far his curiosity and determination would take him. Raised by his aunt and uncle due to financial challenges at home, John understood from an early age that education was his opportunity to build a different future. His journey from St Jude’s Primary School in Arusha to Mauritius, then to the United States as a Mandela Washington Fellow, stands as a powerful reminder of what becomes possible when talent is matched with opportunity.
Opportunity of a life-time: Alum John was selected as one of just 620 fellows around the the world for the prestigious Madela Washington Fellowship in the USA.
At St Jude’s, John quickly stood out for his love of learning. He excelled in mathematics and geography, and by the time he reached secondary school, he had assumed leadership roles that reflected his growing passion for service and the environment. He served as Environment Prefect and chaired the school’s Malihai Club, which promoted sustainability and environmental awareness among students. These experiences began to shape a young man who cared deeply about people, communities and the natural world.
After completing Form 6, John embraced the St Jude’s tradition of giving back by teaching biology at a local government school during his Community Service Year. Once again, he left a mark through his commitment to helping younger students recognize their own potential. His strong academic performance and leadership qualities helped him secure a full scholarship to study Social Sciences at the African Leadership University in Mauritius, a degree accredited by Glasgow Caledonian University in the UK.
Today, John is an self-employed entrepreneur based in Kilimanjaro, working with fellow founders to build solutions that convert food waste into organic fertilizers. He is also committed to supporting the next generation of innovators and spent part of 2024 mentoring young digital entrepreneurs. His journey caught the attention of many, including supporters in Australia, when he joined Gemma on tour in February 2025, sharing his story with audiences who were moved by his authenticity and vision for Tanzania.
Friends for life: John with his fellow Mandela Washington Fellows.
In the middle of this year, John reached another milestone when he was selected as a Mandela Washington Fellow. The fellowship is the United States Government’s flagship program for emerging African leaders and receives over 58,000 applications each year. John was one of only 620 young leaders chosen across the continent, a moment he describes as overwhelming and deeply affirming. He attended the fellowship at the University of Iowa.
“Although I had heard about the fellowship before, I had never truly considered myself worthy of such a prestigious opportunity. So, when I finally received the news that I had been selected, I was filled with overwhelming joy, disbelief and deep gratitude. It was a powerful reminder that the work I have been doing in my community is meaningful,” says John.
Impact in action: John with the Iowa Secretary of State, Paul Pate, during a visit to the Iowa State Capitol.
John spent six intensive weeks at the University of Iowa’s Tippie College of Business, which is ranked as the leading business school in the state. He joined the Leadership in Business track, learning alongside 24 other young leaders from across Africa. The program was designed to blend academics, leadership development, community engagement, cultural exchange and professional exposure. According to John, every part of the experience built on the next, creating a powerful and interconnected learning journey.
“As an aspiring entrepreneur, I chose the Leadership in Business track because of my deep belief that well-led businesses have the power to transform communities. Strong businesses create jobs, spark innovation and improve the quality of life. And that aligns with the impact I am working to build through companies that serve people, protect the planet and unlock opportunities where it's needed the most,” John says.
He shared that one of the highlights was participating in the Signature Venture School, an intensive entrepreneurial program run by the John Pappajohn Entrepreneurial Center. The sessions were fast-paced and practical, covering innovation, venture development and leadership in complex systems. John pitched his own venture during the program’s competition and was selected as one of the nine awardees, earning a seed award to develop his ideas further. This recognition reinforced his belief that Africa has no shortage of talent, only a shortage of platforms and support systems that allow young people to rise. \
Sharing his passion: John had the opportunity to share more about his work, Zona Enterprise, in Tanzania.
Beyond the classroom, John engaged in rich community experiences. He volunteered with Central Furniture Rescue and the Iowa City Public Library and participated in cultural events, family hosting experiences, professional networking and multiple site visits across Iowa’s innovation and agricultural sectors. These moments helped him deepen his understanding of leadership in different contexts and broaden his appreciation for community-driven service.
Describing his biggest takeaway, John says, “Leadership is a lifelong responsibility, one rooted in service, humility and the courage to reimagine what is possible.”
He returned home with strengthened confidence, new partnerships and a determination to help other young Africans unlock their potential.
From a modest childhood in Tanzania to representing the continent on a global leadership platform, John’s journey exemplifies the power of education to break the cycle of poverty and inspire transformation. St Jude’s is proud of the young leader he has become and even prouder of the impact he continues to create for Tanzania and beyond.
Q&A with Long’ida
Hitting the road: CSY volunteer Long’ida hit the road in November as part of the Form 1 letter delivery for Scholarship Application Day.
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.
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.
Kiswahili word of the month
UKUAJI [oo-koo-AH-jee] Noun: Singular
Ukuaji refers to the process of developing, improving and becoming stronger. At St Jude’s, ukuaji can be seen in academic progress of students, the confidence they build, the skills they gain and the positive changes they experience as they move from one stage of learning to the next.
History
The word ukuaji originates from the Swahili word kua meaning to “grow.” In earlier times, the word was commonly used to describe the natural development of children, crops and livestock.
As societies evolved, the meaning of ukuaji expanded to be used to capture intellectual progress, moral development and the steady improvement of skills. Today, the word is used across Tanzania to celebrate academic achievement, character development and continuous journey of learning.
Everywhere you look: The word ukuaji is all around St Jude’s.
How to use the word:
Every challenge provides a chance for ukuaji
The ukuaji of a student can be seen in both their confidence and understanding
St Jude’s creates an environment that supports academic and personal ukuaji.
Soaring to new heights
Record high: This year’s ceremony marked the largest yet, with 121 alumni celebrating their tertiary graduation.
Earlier this month, The School of St Jude shone in hues of gold, blue, white and red as 121 proud tertiary graduates tossed their caps high into the air during the 2025 Beyond St Jude’s Recognition Ceremony.
The annual event recognises alumni who have completed diploma or degree programs at higher learning institutions across Tanzania and beyond, marking the transition from student to professional for dozens of young changemakers.
Established in 2022, the Beyond St Jude’s Recognition Ceremony has become a key part of the school’s calendar, giving tertiary graduates the chance to return to St Jude’s and celebrate, with their family and friends, in the place where it all began.
This year’s ceremony was the biggest yet, bringing together 121 alumni, including 10 new medical doctors.
Student speaker, Alfred, who is graduating as a medical doctor, expressed his gratitude to those who made the journey possible, from Founding Director Gemma Sisia to parents and guardians, sponsors, donors and academic teams.
“We are gathered not only as graduates of universities across Tanzania and beyond, but as proud sons and daughters of The School of St Jude, where our journey began and where our hearts will always return. We are proud to say that St Jude’s alumni are now in every corner of Tanzania where change is needed. We are proof that education, when wrapped in love and service, can break the cycle of poverty,” he says.
We made it: Graduates danced their way into the ceremony with bright smiles on their faces.
Guest of Honour, Prudence Masako, Country Director for CARE International in Tanzania, inspired graduates to remain lifelong learners and agents of change.
“Be life-long learners, the world is changing fast. Don’t let your degree be the end of your learning; let it be the beginning. Read widely, ask questions, seek mentors and never, never stop growing. Success is measured not by what you earn but by the differences you make. Serve your family, your community and your country. Tanzania needs your leadership, your innovation and your courage,” she says.
Mussa, Beyond St Jude’s Scholarship Program and Career Development Programs Manager, echoed this message, reminding graduates to hold onto the school’s core values: Respect, Responsibility, Honesty and Kindness.
Inspiring insight: Guest of Honour, Prudence Masako addressed the graduates with words of wisdom and advice for their future paths.
“You have walked a long journey to reach this day. You have faced challenges, made sacrifices and pushed through moments of doubt. Yet, here you are: strong, prepared and ready for the next chapter of your lives. At The School of St Jude, we do not just measure success in certificates, but in the leaders, problem-solvers and changemakers we send out into the world. You are now ambassadors of this great institution. Tanzania, and the wider world, needs your brilliance, compassion and determination. Go, and make us all proud,” he says.
From promoting hand hygiene to building a library
Emmanuel, Form 4 graduate from the Class of 2020, is no stranger to innovation. The last time we caught up with him, he had developed his own automatic handwashing system to tackle hygiene challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic. Today, he’s taken his vision even further, turning local solutions into projects that impact communities across Africa.
On the international stage: Emmanuel received the Davis Peace Prize in early 2024, an award that helped him establish the peace Library in Zanzibar.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, at just 18 years old, he saw the urgent need for clean water and proper hygiene to protect his community's health. Driven by his passion for children’s rights and a safe environment, he created a foot-operated handwashing machine to reduce hand contact and limit germ transmission.
His invention led to the installation of over 400 handwashing machines across northern Tanzania, significantly promoting better hygiene and helping to reduce the spread of the virus. This innovative effort quickly caught UNICEF’s attention, leading to his appointment as a youth ambassador, expanding his mission of improving health access and awareness.
Soon after, he was named one of 9 Young African Activists to Look Out for in 2022 by Global Citizen, furthering his advocacy horizon.
Inspiring others: Emmanuel is a UNICEF youth ambassador, which has helped expand his mission of improving health access and awareness.
“It was an incredible honor that motivated me to keep pushing for change. This recognition opened doors for partnerships and collaborations, allowing him to scale his impact and inspire more youth to take action,” he says.
With the success of his handwashing machine, he went on to establish a community library under his peace project. The Peace Library in Kizimkazi, Zanzibar was established by Emmanuel, thanks to the Davis Peace Prize that he won in early 2024, and support from the Assalam Foundation.
Giving back: Emmanuel has returned to St Jude’s in recent years to share his knowledge and expertise with students.
“The idea for the library was fueled by my conviction that peace education begins with accessible knowledge. I envisioned a vibrant space where students could explore peace, leadership, and advocacy, equipping them to become peace ambassadors in their communities and fostering long-term social change,” he says.
Emmanuel describes it as more than just a library; it’s a thriving space where children can learn, connect with their cultural roots, and build community. With a theater hall that accommodates over 400 people, the library hosts gatherings, events, and features screens displaying educational resources, opening doors to knowledge and connections beyond Zanzibar.
His mission? “I want to inspire African youth to create change,” he says.
Through workshops and public speaking, he reaches young people across the continent, rallying them to advocate for climate, education, and peace. His journey is a call to St Jude’s alumni, showing the impact they can have in leading Africa forward.
Q&A with primary teacher, Ms Janeth
Every year on 5 October the world recognises the vital role teachers play in shaping future generations as we celebrate World Teachers’ Day. At St Jude’s, this day is one of our favourites on the calendar, as we proudly honour the dedication and passion of all our teachers who inspire students to dream big.
We value every contribution and the hard work our teachers pour into helping students thrive. Recently, we caught up with Ms Janeth, one of our primary school English teachers, to hear more about her passion for teaching.
Celebrating our teachers: Primary school English teacher, Ms Janeth, shares what she loves most about teaching at St Jude’s.
Growing up, did you always want to become a teacher?
Yes, I always wanted to be a teacher because I always wanted to see young children grow and achieve their dreams. I have been teaching for 10 years now, and I am still happy to see my students growing, something that I have always dreamt about.
What is the most interesting thing about working at St Jude’s?
Nurturing students from the beginning and helping students to perform well. It’s always great to see them progressing and learning new things about the world around them.
Why is it important to celebrate World Teachers’ Day?
It is very important to recognise the hard work of teachers and see the challenges that we are going through. I am lucky to work in a wonderful team of teachers and I am happy to be appreciated.
What advice would you give to aspiring teachers?
Love the job! Because teaching is a calling, and being a teacher, you should always be committed, since teaching is endless learning.
Kiswahili word of the month
JAMII
[jah-MEE-ee] Noun. Singular
The word Jamii means community. It represents the idea of people coming together, supporting one another, and sharing a common purpose or identity. At St Jude’s, the spirit of Jamii is everywhere. No more so than this month, when the entire St Jude’s community of 1,800 students and 350+ staff gathered on the campus to celebrate St Jude’s Day. It is one of the biggest and most anticipated events on the school calendar, and it is a reminder of our shared mission and vision.
Living in unity: Celebrations like St Jude’s Day are a perfect example of Jamii in action.
History
While Jamii is a common Swahili word used across East Africa, its meaning has grown over time. Traditionally, it referred to villages or neighbourhoods where people relied on one another for daily life and survival. Today, Jamii extends beyond physical locations to any group bonded by shared purpose, values, or experiences. In places like St Jude’s, it represents the modern idea of a supportive, inclusive community.
How to use the word …
The school garden project showed real Jamii, with everyone pitching in to help.
The spirit of Jamii was seen when students helped each other in class.
Everyone enjoyed a sense of Jamii during the lunch time activities.
Threads of opportunity
When American Rotarian Linda first read about a Rotary project in India teaching women life skills to support their families, it sparked an idea: what if she could bring the same opportunity to students at The School of St Jude?
“I love to sew, and maybe The School of St Jude would be interested in having a sewing machine to teach students to sew,” says Linda.
The timing couldn’t have been better. St Jude’s Founder, Gemma Sisia, had recently added sewing machines to the school’s donation wish list. Having learned to sew herself, Gemma knew firsthand how valuable this skill could be.
What started as a plan to donate a single sewing machine quickly became more ambitious. With the support of her Rapid City Rushmore Rotary Club in South Dakota, Linda secured the first machine. However, after enlisting the support of her family, notably her brother, a member of the Scottsbluff/Gehring Rotary Club in Nebraska, she was able to donate a second machine as well.
Making a difference: Linda travelled to St Jude’s in 2024 to present to two sewing machines to students and staff.
In 2024, Linda had the opportunity to visit St Jude’s campus in Arusha, Tanzania, to present the sewing machines to students and staff in person. Before her arrival, the school had recruited two teachers to train students in sewing, including practical skills like mending their uniforms.
This initiative has empowered the school’s 1,800 students to repair uniforms internally, extending the impact of the donation far beyond the initial gift.
“The sewing machines are the gift that keeps giving as the students learn a new skill and the uniforms are repaired,” she says.
