Our latest collection is inspired by Madagascar and we’re proud to announce that we’re donating $10,000 to Anjiro Initiative, a Malagasy-run non-profit that provides grants for school tuition.
Tea was introduced to Anjiro Initiative by our photo producer, Ria Faust. You might recognize her daughter, Amelia, from our recent photoshoots. We caught up with Ria to learn more about Anjiro Initiative’s work.
What is the Anjiro Initiative?
“The program started in 2014 in Anjiro, Madagascar based on local families’ desire for their children to have access to education. Anjiro Initiative is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that supports educational programs in under-resourced communities by providing grants to primary school, secondary school, and university students and community organizations. It is run by Malagasy administrators, who partner with three local schools to identify grant recipients, disburse grants, track student progress, collaborate with school and community leaders, and oversee projects.”
What will the donation be used for?
“The average annual tuition for primary and secondary school in Anjiro, Madagascar is $50 per student. Half of Tea’s $10,000 donation will be used to cover 2021-2022 academic year tuition fees for 100 primary and secondary school students.”
“The other half will be set aside for 25 students who are slated to graduate from high school and pursue university studies in the 2022-2023 academic year. This program covers university entrance exam and prep class fees, university application fees, and tuition for one year at approximately $200 per student.”
“Anjiro Initiative is so grateful to Tea for its generous donation. It will make a direct impact on the lives of students and families in Anjiro.”
Why do you work with Anjiro Initiative?
“The students and families in Anjiro are incredibly inspiring. The students work diligently to succeed in school because they realize how important their education is for themselves and their families. By sending their children to school, parents and guardians commit to a long term investment. Instead of seeking immediate relief for themselves with nonprofit assistance or having their children help with the household income, they choose their children’s education. They believe in each other so much.”
“With Anjiro Initiative, funds directly help the hardworking students and make an immediate impact on their families outlook. I’ve shared this project with my 9 year old daughter Amelia. She sees the scholars in Anjiro as change makers and is inspired by them, too.”
Visit Anjiro Initiative’s website to learn more about their work, and be sure to check out our newest collection inspired by Madagascar here.