From Passion to Profession — The Story of Mwamvita
April 21, 2026

Mwamvita Laurent’s journey

Mwamvita Laurent’s journey is a powerful story of transformation—one that begins with a simple passion and grows into a life-changing opportunity.

Before everything changed, Mwamvita loved to draw. It was something she did naturally, a quiet talent that allowed her to express herself. But like many young women facing economic and social challenges, she did not see her passion as a pathway to a career. Art was something personal—something done in the background—not something she believed could sustain her future.

That began to change when she joined the Tumpe Binti Thamani (Give Her Value) program by Raising Up Friendship Foundation in Dar es Salaam.

Through the program, Mwamvita gained more than just skills—she gained a new sense of self. She was supported through training in life skills, financial management, and personal development, alongside one-on-one coaching that helped her set goals and believe in her potential.

“Before RUFFO, I was just drawing for myself. I didn’t think it could take me anywhere. But they helped me see that my talent has value—and that I can build a future from it.” — Mwamvita Laurent

For the first time, she began to see her drawings not just as art—but as opportunity.


With growing confidence and determination, Mwamvita made a bold decision: she relocated to Paje Zanzibar to pursue her dream. In a new environment filled with tourists and opportunity, she saw the chance to turn her passion into something sustainable.


Today, Mwamvita is a proud business owner. She runs her own art shop in Paje, where she creates and sells original, hand-drawn artwork. Each piece reflects not only her creativity, but also her journey—one of resilience, growth, and self-discovery.


“Now, my art is my work. It supports me, and it makes me proud. I want other girls to know that what they love can also become their future.”



What began as a simple hobby has now become her profession


 The Program Behind the Transformation

Mwamvita’s story is just one example of the impact of the Tumpe Binti Thamani (Give Her Value) project.


Many young girls in urban communities face stigma, economic hardship, and limited opportunities. Some are labelled or excluded, while others carry the burden of supporting their families at a very young age. Without support, they are at risk of falling into cycles of marginalization.


RUFFO created this program to change that narrative.


 1. Economic Strengthening & Social Empowerment

Participants are equipped with essential life skills, including goal-setting, communication, financial literacy, and awareness of gender-based challenges. These tools help them build confidence, make informed decisions, and assert their value in society.


2. One-on-One Life Coaching

Each participant receives personalized mentorship, providing a safe and supportive space to address individual challenges, set goals, and develop practical strategies for growth.

3. Vocational Training & Real Work Experience

Girls are given hands-on training in areas aligned with their interests, allowing them to gain practical experience and build sustainable livelihoods.

A Story of Impact

Mwamvita’s success is not just about opening a shop—it is about transformation.


She has moved from uncertainty to independence, from self-doubt to confidence. Today, she is not only supporting herself, but also inspiring others to believe in their own potential.


Support Mwamvita’s Work

Mwamvita’s artwork is unique, personal, and deeply meaningful. Each piece tells a story—not just of creativity, but of empowerment.



And as Mwamvita herself would say;

“Karibu Zanzibar! Ukifika Paje, don’t just take photos—take a piece of art home too. Support your girl! My drawings are waiting for you.”

Giving Her Value

Based in Dar es Salaam, Raising Up Friendship Foundation continues to empower young women through Tumpe Binti Thamani.


Mwamvita’s story is proof of a simple but powerful truth:

When a girl is given value, she creates value—for herself, her community, and the future.

Part-Time Business Admin & Fundraising Assistant

By Henry Manyasi • August 13, 2025
Job Advertisement We’re Hiring! Part-Time Business Admin & Fundraising Assistant Organization : Raising Up Friendship Foundation (RUFFO) Location : Dar es Salaam, Tanzania Schedule: 2 days per week About Us Raising Up Friendship Foundation is a women-led, youth-serving NGO dedicated to empowering women and children through education, advocacy, and community-driven solutions. Role Overview We are seeking a detail-oriented and proactive Part-Time Business Admin & Fundraising Assistant to support financial administration for one of our donor-funded projects and help grow our fundraising efforts. This role includes an incentive-based commission for successfully bringing in organizations sponsoring their staff for the Girls 4 Girls course. Key Responsibilities • Manage financial and administrative tasks for a donor-funded project​ • Maintain accurate records and reports​ • Research and engage potential partners and sponsors​ • Identify opportunities to expand program participation and fundraising Requirements • Strong organizational and communication skills​ • Ability to work independently and meet deadlines​ • Basic computer skills (MS Office, Google Workspace)​ • Comfortable engaging with potential sponsors and partner organizations​ • Passion for community development and empowering women and children Work Schedule & Pay • 2 days per week (flexible hours)​ • Base pay plus commission incentives based on organizational sponsorships secured How to Apply Send your CV and a short cover letter to info@ruffo.or.tz with the subject line: Part-Time Business Admin & Fundraising Assistant – Your Name.​ Deadline: [25-08-2025]

RUFFO Joins WHO in Signing MOU to Advance Public Health Services in Tanzania

By Amos Mhando • May 8, 2024
Dar es Salaam, Tanzania - On May 8th, 2024, Raising Up Friendship Foundation (RUFFO) signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the World Health Organization (WHO), alongside other non-state actors. This partnership underscores a shared commitment to advancing public health services across Tanzania. The MoU was signed on behalf of RUFFO by Executive Director and Co-Founder Hilda Ngaja. Dr. Charles Sagoe-Moses, the WHO country representative, highlighted the importance of this collaboration in addressing the country's health challenges. He noted that the partnerships will enable WHO to leverage the expertise, resources, and networks of these organizations to address the health challenges the country faces. The signing ceremony marked the culmination of an extensive process that began with an expression of interest launched in December 2022. Out of 46 submissions, RUFFO was was one of 11 selected through a rigorous evaluation and the FENSA process, mandated by the World Health Assembly in 2016. Hilda Ngaja expressed her enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, "This MoU signifies a critical step forward in our mission to empower women and children in Tanzania. We are honored to collaborate with WHO and other esteemed organizations to enhance disease prevention, health promotion, and innovative healthcare solutions. This partnership will enable us to make a significant impact on public health services across the country." RUFFO is proud to be part of this initiative and remains dedicated to its mission of empowering women and children in Tanzania. The organization looks forward to working closely with WHO and other partners to improve access to quality healthcare services, strengthen health workforce development, and promote the use of innovative technologies in healthcare delivery. The signing of the MoU represents a shared vision of improving public health in Tanzania, highlighting the critical role of partnerships in achieving the health for all agenda.

School Visit

By Henry Manyasi • February 26, 2024
On February 9th, 2024, RUFFO had the privilege of participating in a special event held at Kerezange Secondary School in Kitunda, Ilala, Dar es Salaam. The event, aimed at welcoming incoming form one students, provided an opportunity for RUFFO to engage with students, educators, and community members, and to promote initiatives that support the well-being and empowerment of both boys and girls. During the event, representatives from RUFFO introduced the organization and its mission to support vulnerable students through various projects and initiatives. Among these initiatives is the Sitanyamaza club, which advocates against violence and promotes the importance of speaking out against abuse and injustice. The Sitanyamaza club plays a crucial role in providing a safe space for students to discuss and address issues such as violence, abuse, and discrimination. Through activities and discussions led by the club, students are empowered to recognize their rights, build self-confidence, and seek support when needed.