Ashland, Ore., A graduate student at SOU is trying to give back to her home country by raising money to build a school.
Just three short years ago, Mercy Kangunga moved to the U.S from Malawi, a country in southeast Africa
Now she wants to help women and girls in the town reach their full potential.
“Kids here don’t know what it’s like to be denied the opportunity to go to school.” said Megan Farnsworth, Mercy’s teacher and one of the event organizers.
Mercy Kangunga embraces higher education, something she’s noticed that is assumed as standard for nearly everyone in America.
But in many countries in Africa, that isn’t always the case.
“It’s not of their own making, if we gave them the resources, if they are given a chance they are willing to work hard and be motivated.” said Mercy.
Three years ago Mercy moved to the U.S from a small village called Chombo in Malawi, a country in southeast Africa.
She was given the opportunity to obtain her masters degree at Southern Oregon University.
“It’s an opportunity which I think has changed my life.” said Mercy.
Now she is doing her best to try and give back to her home town, by building a school for women and girls.
“It’s the right time to bring a change to my village. So it’s all about that, I need those girls, I need those boys who are sitting under a tree to read books, to change their mindset.” said Mercy.
The event “A Taste of Malawi” will showcase traditional foods of the town as well have a silent auction.
Organizers hope it will raise enough money to start their project of building the school.
“The main message is to come and support education for women and girls and they can do that at a local level, that every person can make a difference in a global cause.” said Farnsworth.
The event tonight starts at 5:30 PM in the “Diversion” room on the first floor of the Stevenson Union at SOU.
Tickets are available for purchase at the door. If you can’t attend the event but want to help the cause, you can donate on their Go Fund Me page at https://www.gofundme.com/rzr4qwrr
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