It’s incredible to think that 12 years have already passed since my visit to the Mehayo Center in Morogoro, Tanzania. At the time, I had embarked on a project for CreativeCares to share the stories of disabled children in Africa, but from a unique perspective. I had grown tired of seeing media coverage that only showed the suffering and despair of these young people. Instead, I wanted to highlight their successes, despite the challenges they faced. My goal was to offer a lens of hope, rather than one of despair, in the hopes that people would be inspired to donate.
During my time at the Mehayo Center, I was amazed by the incredible work being done there. The staff and volunteers were dedicated to providing the highest quality care and support to the young people with disabilities who came to the center. It was evident that this was more than just a rehabilitation facility, it was a true community where people came together to support each other.
One thing that stood out to me was the range of programs and resources available to the young people at the center. They had access to top-notch rehabilitation services, including physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and prosthetic and orthotic services. In addition, the center offered vocational training programs in computer skills, agriculture, and sewing, among others. It was heartening to see the young people gaining valuable skills and knowledge that could help them build successful, independent lives.
But what struck me the most was the sense of community and support that was fostered at the Mehayo Center. The staff and volunteers had created a warm and welcoming environment where the young people felt safe and cared for. The residents had a sense of belonging and camaraderie, making the center feel like a true home.
My experience at the Mehayo Center was truly eye-opening. It taught me about the power of hope and community in the face of adversity. By sharing the success stories of the young people at the center, we can inspire others to support their journey towards independence and empowerment. I feel grateful for the opportunity to have visited the center and witnessed the incredible work being done there. It is an organization that is changing lives and making a positive impact in the world.