Maasai celebrate International Women's Day, March 8, 2024

Hello Teri,

It took us by surprise when the women of Esiteti asked for financial assistance so they could celebrate International Women’s Day March 8th. IWD is a global holiday celebrated every year focusing on issues such as gender equality, reproductive rights, and violence and abuse against women. Three 'elder' women were honored - Nakai, Laroi and Naimesoi.

Nakai has assisted with pregnancies and deliveries at Esiteti for years.. When her daughter, Elizabeth attended ASK's first Alternative Rite of Passage in 2015, she learned about the health risks of female genital mutilation. She also learned the ritual of FGM wasn't the only way a girl could transition from girlhood to womanhood. Elizabeth convinced her mother not to marry her off in 8th grade and to allow her to finish high school. Elizabeth got a college diploma and works at ASK's Health Wagon .

Today, the Esiteti community has stopped harmful practices and early marriage and their focus is on the importance of education. Maternal and infant mortality is still quite common, and a trained Midwife is desperately needed at Esiteti. Elizabeth is currently being considered for a full

4-year Girls College Scholarship to become a certified Midwife.

Shauna Mistretta worked with ASK for several years helping form a sustainable women-owned artisan group. She will be guiding a small group interested in immersing in the day-to-day life of the Maasai living in and around Esiteti. This "ReWild" trip is scheduled for June 21 - 28, 2024.

Although this upcoming trip is not a sponsored trip through ASK, Shauna has graciously agreed to donate $2500, per guest, toward our projects. Read more and for more specific information, please contact Shauna at shauna@emergingvisionaries.org.

The 2024 school year started

Jan. 8th. It’s so exciting knowing hundreds of students from Esiteti Primary School will go on to complete high school. We would not have this success without our Student Scholarships. For those who have yet to contribute your annual $250 for your student's 2024 school year, please use this link.

For others interested in helping students and families with school fees, please contribute toward the Student Scholarship Fund. This fund is for orphaned children or others unable to attend elementary school.

Interviews from Esiteti

Interviews and photos prepared by Seuta Kisioki.

Seleina Botor

Sponsored by Patterson Cummings

My name is Faith Moikali. I am in form 2.

Education has changed my life positively because I have joined high school and I know I will go to higher levels. If I didn’t go to school, I would have been married off and be a mother at my young age. I have participated ARP My parents love girl’s education very much. Esiteti community are a good example to other communities. I value education because it is the key to success in life.

My role model is Alice. She is supporting education in our school

I would like appreciate my sponsor and any one working with ASK. ASHE!!! THANK YOU.

Melelo Kamete

Sponsored by Carolyn Butcher & Michael Perry

My name is Melelo. I am in form 3.

Education has made me a discipline, hardworking girl. School has made me busy so protected me from early marriage and early pregnancy. I have participated in Esiteti ARP. My parents feel so happy and positive above girl’s education. Esiteti community had stopped FGM because of ARPs.

My goals and dreams in future after school is to become a doctor.

My role model is Teri; I want also to help people in future

Thank you ASK may God bless you.