Attiya’s Birthday Gift to Malaika Children’s Home

As many of you know, my passion for helping others and the importance I place on charitable giving began at a very young age. Since pursuing a degree in international development, and subsequently working in various roles within this sector (including my current position at the University of Central Asia in Kyrgyzstan), my passion and dedication to development has only grown. One of my first experiences overseas, that continues to inspire my work in this field, was the time I spent at Malaika Children's Home back in 2007 and again in early 2016.

A family friend was among the founders of the orphanage back in December 2004 located just outside of Arusha, Tanzania. "Malaika (meaning 'angel' in Swahili) cares for children from a few months old to adolescents and provides the children with schooling, medical attention, and most importantly love, all in a stable home environment. Malaika’s warmth and vibrancy is reflected in the faces of all the children – full of bubbling affection and newfound confidence."

In honor of my 25th birthday, I wanted to ask friends and family to make a contribution towards Malaika's medical expenses instead of spending money on birthday gifts. Annually, both CD4 tests (T-cell or white blood cell tests) and VL tests (viral load tests for HIV) are administered to the children of the orphanage. The cost of these tests adds up so any help paying for this medical bills is helpful.

My personal goal is to raise $2,500, in honor of my 25th birthday, so any amount, small or big, would be incredibly appreciated.

Sending love your way xo

Attiya