“This Unite workshop was one of the most important experiences in my life. It gave me new knowledge, new skills, and new inspiration. Most importantly, it gave me a new family.”
~15-year-old Anither Seleli
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A few weeks ago, our newest class of 22 Form 4 graduates traveled to Dar es Salaam for their first week-long Unite bootcamp.
They came from across Tanzania—from Tanga, Lindi, Manyara, Mwanza, Geita, Tabora, Kigoma, Katavi, and Morogoro. For many, the journey was not easy. Scholars walked from their homes to reach the nearest bus stations, then traveled overland for days—sleeping on buses and navigating complex layovers and transfers along the way.
When they arrived at the bustling central station in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania’s largest city, they were warmly welcomed by Unite teammates and transported to a large house in Oyster Bay that Unite rented for the event. Scholars were assigned shared rooms by gender and provided with Unite t-shirts, personal hygiene supplies, notebooks, and pens. The bootcamp began with introductions and a detailed review and signing of Unite’s contracts and code of conduct—clearly outlining the responsibilities of each scholar and the standards that define our Unite community.
“During the journey, I saw many amazing things for the first time such as tall buildings, hotels, and well-constructed roads.”
~18-year-old Welwel Giring
The week was intensive and transformative. Unite’s university scholars worked alongside mentors to deliver sessions on communication and active listening, the difference between feedback and criticism, time management, personal branding, and the critical topics of sexual harassment and bullying—areas where Unite maintains a strict zero-tolerance policy. Mentors also discussed how to successfully transition into A-level studies, which this class will begin early July.
We were honored to welcome Unite’s medical advisor, Dr. Eshaan Williams, who led comprehensive health workshops covering nutrition, hygiene, physical fitness, sexual and reproductive health, and disease prevention. Dr. Williams also conducted individual health evaluations with each scholar.
Unite’s counselor, Stella Mosha, was on site throughout the week, meeting privately with scholars to provide emotional support and guidance as many of them struggle to navigate personal and family challenges.
“Since my childhood, I have faced many challenges and did not always feel loved or hopeful. However, through my new Unite family, I now see a bright future ahead of me.”
~22-year-old Hussein Venas Maganga
Each scholar was also presented with a smartphone—an essential tool for communication with Unite mentors, “big brothers and sisters,” and tutors. For many, this was their first time using such a device so they learned how to use their phones for academic purposes, including writing reports and supporting their studies, and how to safely navigate social media while adhering to Unite’s strict codes of conduct.
Over the course of the five-day bootcamp, scholars also participated in Unite talent shows and educational field trips to Kamal Steel and the Unite Food Program. They also visited the beaches of Dar es Salaam, where many experienced the Indian Ocean for the very first time!
Our new Unite girls at Kamal Steel in Dar es Salaam. Kamal Steel has been a longtime partner of Unite providing internships to our students and jobs for our graduates. These young scholars were given a tour of the factory to learn about steel and gas production processes and workplace safety.
“Unite has taught me that dreams are possible, hard work and honesty are keys to success, and sharing knowledge helps communities grow.”
~19-year-old Amina Hussein
Our new Unite boys at the Unite Food Program (UFP) headquarters in Kunduchi, Dar es Salaam.
“My responsibilities as a Unite scholar include discipline, communication, cooperation, respecting others and myself.”
~18-year-old Maimuna Bashiru
During their tour of UFP, our scholars learned the entire process of how the maize is purchased, processed, fortified with essential micronutrients, packaged, and sold back into the marketplace.
“I learned that success is possible regardless of one’s background and that Unite is a lifelong family.”
~22-year-old Erick Akiba
Our Unite Scholars playing and relaxing on Coco Beach in Dar es Salaam. It was an exciting day as most had never seen the Indian Ocean before.
“I learned how to think creatively and turn challenges into opportunities.”
~17-year-old Anatolia Fabiano
Unite’s environmental scientist Clara Wilson Ngowi taught the scholas how to compost manure using natural materials like banana leaves, grass, and food leftovers.
“From Unite, I have learned the importance of love, cooperation, punctuality, hard work, and integrity. Now I can become a role model in my family and community.”
~17-year-old Justine Emmanuel
Each scholar received staple food items from Unite Food Program to take home to help feed themselves and their families.
“This Unite Kickoff Event was a life-changing experience for me. It gave me new knowledge, new friendships, and a strong sense of belonging. I am proud to be part of this family where we are united, supportive, and focused on achieving our goals together.”
~17-year-old Happiness Khalid
This maps highlights where our Unite Scholars live across Tanzania. Note: Dar es Salaam is on the East Coast of the country along the Indian Ocean.