Growing up in Salima, I saw firsthand how education—or the lack of it—shaped the lives of girls around me. Some of my childhood friends, full of promise and potential, never got the chance to finish school. Many were married off as teenagers, their dreams cut short before they had a chance to take flight. This is not just a statistic; it’s a reality I have witnessed.

In Malawi, 40% of girls get married by the age of 18, and only 16% of those who complete primary school make it to secondary school. These numbers are not just alarming—they are a call to action. Every girl who is denied an education is a future leader, scientist, doctor, or innovator lost.

Wamwayi mentoring a group of young people at a YES Initiative program in Malawi.

But I also know what happens when a girl is given a chance.

I was fortunate. My education took me from Salima to the College of Medicine, where I earned my honours degree in Pharmacy. That journey shaped not only my career but also my commitment to ensuring that other young girls get the same opportunities. It’s what led me to YESI in 2019, where I’ve mentored and worked with students who, with just a little support, can transform their lives and communities.

Group of young Malawian girls celebrating access to education through the YES Initiative mentorship program

Since 2017, YESI has supported over 200 students from rural areas with tuition fees in secondary schools. Out of those, only seven boys have made it to public universities—but not a single girl. Not one. This is not just a statistic; it’s a crisis. And it’s why, in 2025, we are accelerating action.

This year, we are determined to change that reality. Our goal is to support 20 bright, determined young women who need tuition assistance. Because when you educate a girl, you don’t just change her future—you change the future of her family, her community, and ultimately, our nation.

As we continue to commemorate the International Women’s Day, let’s move beyond words. Let’s #AccelerateACTION.

Our sponsorship program aims to support girls at Chilumba CDSS, giving them the opportunity to stay in school and achieve their dreams.

If you believe in the power of education to break cycles of poverty and unlock opportunity, join us. Together, we can ensure that more girls get the chance to write their own stories—just like I did.

To donate towards our sponsorship program, use the link below:

YESI Sponsorship Program