About Us

My name is Hellena Abel Shayo, a 35-year-old entrepreneur in Dar es Salaam. I’ve been running a small business cooking bites and selling soaps, striving to provide for my family. But the journey wasn’t always easy, and there were times when I worried about making ends meet. Everything changed when I received support from the Tanzania Communities Rise Foundation. Their assistance has truly transformed my life. With the resources and encouragement they provided, my business has expanded beyond what I ever imagined. I can now save money, feed my family with ease, and pay for my children’s school fees, ensuring they receive the education they deserve. Words cannot fully express my gratitude for the impact the Foundation has had on my life. They have supported not just my business but also uplifted my spirit and renewed my hope for the future. I now walk with confidence, knowing that my hard work is paying off, and I can provide a better life for my children. To the Tanzania Communities Rise Foundation, I say thank you from the bottom of my heart. Your support has brought light and joy into my life, and I pray that you continue to uplift and empower many more people like me. My story is a testament to the difference you make, and I am forever grateful.

My name is Mary Shayo, a 28-year-old food vendor in Dar es Salaam. I started my business in 2019 with hope, but lacking sufficient capital, I struggled daily to meet my family's needs. It was a constant challenge to keep my business running and provide for my loved ones. Everything changed when I became a beneficiary of the Tanzania Communities Rise Foundation. They provided me with essential supplies like rice, beans, wheat flour, cooking oil, sugar, salt, and soap. Additionally, I was selected to be part of a group of vendors who established a new catering service called Bucha Catering. Thanks to this incredible support, my life has taken a positive turn. With the materials and capital provided by the Foundation, I expanded my business to cook and sell chips, chicken, and eggs, significantly increasing my income. For the first time since starting my business, I am able to meet all my needs and ensure a better life for my family. I always pray that Tanzania Communities Rise Foundation continues to support others like me who are in need. Their support has given me the tools and confidence to grow and succeed. My business is thriving, and I am filled with hope and excitement for the future. Thank you, Tanzania Communities Rise Foundation, for your unwavering support and for helping young entrepreneurs like me turn our dreams into reality.

My name is Tumaini Rafael, a food vendor in Kimara Bucha, Ubungo District, Dar es Salaam. I've been running my small business since 2010, providing for my family, but making ends meet has always been a daily struggle. On June 15, 2024, my life changed dramatically. That day, I learned that the Tanzania Communities Rise Foundation was searching for struggling street food vendors to uplift their businesses. After a screening process, I was incredibly fortunate to be selected. The Foundation provided me with essential supplies like rice, beans, wheat flour, cooking oil, sugar, salt, and soap. Additionally, I was chosen to be part of a new catering service called Bucha Catering. This support has transformed my business and my life. My income has significantly improved, allowing me to save more, ensure my family is well-fed, and comfortably pay rent. The future now looks brighter, and I owe it all to the Tanzania Communities Rise Foundation. Their support has empowered me and given me hope for a better tomorrow. Thank you, Tanzania Communities Rise Foundation, for believing in us and making a real difference in our lives.

My name is Cecilia Rugera, a 47-year-old food vendor in Dar es Salaam. I've been in this business since 2007 and have become well-known for the generous portions I serve, making my meals a favorite among those who do heavy work. Many of my customers travel long distances just to enjoy my hearty plates, and I'm proud to be a source of strength for them. In a community where some may only get one meal a day, I ensure that meal counts, providing not just nourishment but also comfort. I'm deeply committed to feeding everyone who comes to me with love and care. Thanks to the incredible support from the Tanzania Communities Rise Foundation, my life has improved significantly. I can now pay my children's school fees and take better care of my family, lifting a huge burden off my shoulders and allowing me to focus more on providing the best for my customers. I am deeply grateful for the Foundation’s support, which has been a true blessing in my life. It has empowered my business and secured a better future for my family. My heart is full, and I extend my deepest thanks to the Tanzania Communities Rise Foundation for touching my life in the most meaningful way.