African Probiotic Yogurt Network Beneficiary Conferenc

I am writing to request your support as a student intern for the Western Heads East project, Western University's community response to the HIV/AIDS crisis in Africa. Western Heads East has established community kitchens in Tanzania, Rwanda and Kenya fully run by local women known as the "yogurt Mamas." These women produce and sell probiotic yogurt on a daily basis and provide it to those living with HIV/AIDS in the community. Research shows that probiotic improve health by stopping diarrhea and increasing the immune response. This program also empowers the yogurt Mamas by allowing them to contribute to the health of their communities, draw an income for their families and stimulate significant economic development. 

I will by travelling to Mwanza, Tanzania from January 2014- July 2014 as a Western Heads East intern. While there, I will be conducting research on supplementing the probiotic yogurt with Moringa oleifera, a tree very high in vitamins and minerals. I will also be holding three seperate one-day workshops for those in the community living with HIV or AIDS to educate them on the connection between nutrition, probiotics and HIV/AIDS. These workshops will also allow them to sample and evaluate the moringa- probiotic yogurt that will offer health benefits beyond probiotic yogurt alone. These conferences will be held in conjunction with the African Probiotic Yogurt Network and act as a source of empowerment for the beneficiaries.

As an intern, I am seeking funds to cover the costs of the three educational conferences. All money will go directly to the workshops and cover costs such as renting the building; providing lunch and snacks; and hiring translators.  Any partnership is appreciated. Thank-you for your consideration of support for this important community-based enterprise. For more information, visit www.westernheadseast.ca, apyn.webs.com or e-mail me at [email protected].

Best Regards,

Megan Kuikman