How One Man’s Vision Became a Lifeline for Thousands of African Youths

 

When I was invited to share my story during an interview, I did not expect it to prompt such profound reflection.

The questions brought back memories of the early struggle, the first door that opened, and the vision that kept me going. That conversation reminded me of why I started and why thousands of African youths now have access to the support they need. This article is my attempt to put that journey into writing.

In 2005, a single phone call altered my perspective on life.

I was speaking to Janet T., a dear friend with whom I attended college in Sierra Leone. She had been supporting a few children’s education from her savings. When I asked what she needed most, her answer was simple: “Books and school supplies.” That moment revealed a gap and lit a spark.

 

Pupils with pencils provided to them by Develop Africa.

 


I didn’t want to send supplies once. I wanted to help solve the problem. My dad had modeled to me that the poor need more than theories.  They needed to be empowered.

The following year, Develop Africa Inc., a nonprofit organization, was founded with a single goal: to equip the next generation in Africa through education, training, and empowerment.

 

Starting Small. Thinking Long-term.


At first, it was just a few friends and family. We raised money, provided scholarships, shipped supplies, and partnered with local schools. There was no blueprint. No full team. Just a belief that access to education shouldn’t depend on geography.

Early wins came in waves. Children who had dropped out of school returned. Others got their first backpacks, shoes, or writing materials. These weren’t handouts; they were tools that unlocked confidence.

Over time, what began as a project evolved into a structured mission. More donors joined. The first website went live. This helped to attract global support. I still remember when Ståle N, a student in Norway, started sending us $35 per month via PayPal in May 2006. I was blown away by the power of the Internet and how it could connect people who otherwise would never meet.

Stale wrote in an email on May 26. 2006:

I'm now really convinced I made a right choice by deciding to support Develop Africa, and I'm happy I got to be a part of this from the very beginning.

By 2010, Develop Africa Inc. had shipped thousands of educational items across Sierra Leone and other African countries.

 

Why Education and Why Africa?


I grew up in Sierra Leone, where I saw brilliant kids get left behind because their parents couldn’t afford pencils. I also saw how far one scholarship could take a student.

That memory stuck.

For me, education was never optional; it was foundational. But it wasn’t just about books. It was also about leadership, skills training, and mindset development.

That’s why Develop Africa Inc. didn’t stop at school supplies.

 

Sylvester and others packing supplies to be shipped out.


Over the years, the team added computer labs, after-school tutoring, vocational training, and mentorship programs.

 

Built on Trust. Powered by People.


What makes Develop Africa Inc. different isn’t just the programs, it’s the process.

Our team stays close to the ground. We work with local partners who are familiar with the communities. We involve families in decisions. We don’t assume needs; we listen first.

 

Kids in Kamawornie with jersey and banner thanking Develop Africa for the jersey.


 

Boys in Develop Africa Sierra Leone Lab in a mentoring class organized by Develop Africa.


 

Girls after just finishing a mentoring session organized by Develop Africa in Sierra Leone.


Due to my education and background, I brought a tech-savvy, systems-driven mindset. I briefly worked for a nonprofit organization in Sierra Leone before I came to the US. I had visited clinics and participated in rural development training.  With a background in IT and business, I leveraged digital tools to enhance communication, operations, and the sharing of our impact.

And through every phase, my heart has stayed the same: put children first and help remove barriers to progress.

Since its founding, Develop Africa Inc. has:

  • Provided school supplies and other assistance to over 20,000 children
  • Sponsored hundreds of students at primary, secondary school, and college levels
  • Trained thousands of youths in entrepreneurship and tech skills
  • Grown a global network of donors, volunteers, and partners

 

Staffs of Develop Africa in Sierra Leone teaching skills empowerment.


We are just getting started. There’s always one more child who needs a pencil. One more teacher who needs support. One more life to reach.

We stay in an attitude of continuous learning. As I mentioned in an interview:

When we started, I didn't know what I was doing.  I am still learning, adjusting, and figuring it out. By staying flexible and open to change, we are continuing to forge ahead.

The Next Chapter: The Year of the Pencil


This year, Develop Africa Inc. launched a new campaign: The Year of the Pencil.

It’s not just about stationery; it’s a symbol. A pencil represents possibility. Writing your future. Drawing a different path.

Through this campaign, the team aims to equip 10,000 more children across Africa with the materials, mentorship, and momentum to stay in school and rise above poverty.

We are super-excited about the future. We invite you to join us in writing history, changing destinies, and empowering lives.

 

Staffs of Develop Africa distributing pencils to pupils in a school in Sierra Leone.


 

Pupils with pencils provided to them by Develop Africa.


 

Pupils with gifts of bags from Develop Africa with a banner thanking Develop Africa for the provision of school bags.


If this kind of content resonates with you, follow Develop Africa Inc. for more stories, lessons, and behind-the-scenes insights from the frontlines of nonprofit leadership. And please, like, share, or comment to help this message reach others who care.


🔗 Want to learn more or get involved? Here are a few ways you can take action today:

 

Make a Difference Today: Donate to the Year of the Pencil Campaign

On November 20th, this movement placed over 100,000 pencils into the hands 

of children across Sierra Leone in 20 schools.

Each pencil tells a story — of hope, opportunity, and possibility. 

Education is more than lessons — it’s liberation.

Every $25 helps children write their dreams. 

👉 Help provide pencils by donating today!