A Message from Tsehai Wodajo, Founder & President of Resources Enriching African Lives (REAL) from Ethiopia

August 24, 2026

Dear Friends and Supporters,

Greetings from Ethiopia!

As I write this message, my heart is filled with gratitude and hope. After more than two decades of serving vulnerable girls through education, mentorship, and empowerment, REAL has reached one of the most significant milestones in its history. I am currently in Ethiopia leading the effort to establish REAL as a locally registered Ethiopian NGO—an important step that will ensure our mission continues to transform lives for generations to come.

This transition is much more than a legal process. It is about creating a sustainable organization that is led by Ethiopians, strengthened by our graduates, and rooted in the communities we serve.

To support this vision, we have launched four strategic projects:

· Establishing REAL as a strong Ethiopian-based NGO by October 10, 2026

· Assisting REAL graduates in launching a reusable sanitary pad production enterprise that will create employment while helping girls stay in school.

· Organizing a special graduation celebration for girls who have successfully completed Grade 12 and the REAL program at our 22^nd year Anniversary Celebration on October 10, 2026.

· Creating a comprehensive database and profiles of more than 600 girls who have graduated from or are currently enrolled in the REAL program, preserving their stories and measuring our long-term impact.

One of the greatest joys of this journey has been welcoming eight REAL scholars from four program sites, all in their second and third years of university, to serve as interns on these projects. These remarkable young women are developing professional skills, gain valuable experience, and contribute to the organization that invested in their futures. Watching them help build REAL's future is a powerful reminder that today's beneficiaries are becoming tomorrow's leaders. We are also proud to have established a local Board of Directors composed of REAL graduates and respected leaders from various sectors. Their leadership, commitment, and vision will help guide REAL into an exciting new chapter. We will share their information in the future.

None of these achievements would have been possible without you. Your generosity has enabled more than 650 girls to pursue an education, discover their potential, and become leaders in their families and communities.

Today, we invite you to help us take the next step.

Your continued support will help us build a strong, self-sustaining organization that will empower thousands more girls in the years ahead. Together, we are not simply changing individual lives—we are creating a lasting legacy of hope, opportunity, and leadership for Ethiopia.

Thank you for believing in our mission and for walking alongside us on this incredible journey. We look forward to all that we will accomplish together.

To contribute please visit www.real-africa.org/donate 

With heartfelt gratitude,

Tsehai Wodajo, MSW, LGSW