JP: Where do you see the school (and Malaika) in 10 years?
Noella:
•“I see myself in 10 years celebrating a Malaika School that educates the minds and cares for the bodies of 1,000 young women. I want to tell you about a Congo that is more peaceful and more prosperous because we have sent young people out into the world who are equipped with the tools to improve their lives and the lives of those around them. I want to tell you about all of the Congolese people whose lives we have touched; individuals who have since authored their own destinies and sought out opportunities at home or abroad as leaders, caregivers, and agents of change. And I hope to celebrate many other people who have been inspired to give back to the DRC, just as I did. I truly believe all of this, and much more, is possible.”
•More specifically, we envision the school and surrounding community projects to grow. We see our student body growing three-fold, and our academic programs in the arts, language, math, science and STEM to forever be transforming and representative of a hub of intellectual excellence. We would also hope to employ more female educators to act as role models for students. For our community centre to provide more opportunities for sport and health education, entrepreneurship and craft programs. Our clean water wells and WASH program has almost doubled in recent years, which leads us to believe that we can build more clean water wells and safe infrastructure in and around our community.
•We hope to continue growing our partnerships, who have helped our school grow and prosper as such a quick rate. As my favorite African Proverb states, “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.” We’ve had amazing and dynamic partnerships with such a range of organizations.