L-R: Dr. Jung, Ms. Gaxiola, Ms. Gadabu, Ms. Prebble, Ambassador Sawerengera, Ms. Ryan
On Tuesday, September 18, Ambassador of the Republic of Malawi Edward Sawerengera visited The Academy of the Holy Cross. The Ambassador was interested in all-girls' schools as he has made a commitment to strengthen opportunities for girls' education in Malawi. Joining Ambassador Sawerengera was Concepcion Gaxiola, Executive Director of All Girls' Education in Africa (AGE Africa). AGE Africa's mission is to provide life-changing opportunities to young women in Malawi through targeted initiatives in education, mentoring, and leadership development. The Ambassador was also joined by Margaret Mwanza Gadabu, Head of Chancery for the Embassy of the Republic of Malawi, and Dr. Dick Jung, Former Executive Director of the Association of Independent Schools of Greater Washington.
During the guests' visit, President Katy Prebble gave a tour of the school, which included several interactions with students and teachers. The Ambassador and Ms. Gaxiola spoke with Belane Ayelework '19, president of the Academy's International Club and National Merit Commended Scholar. The group also stopped into an Honor's Biology class, where the Ambassador spoke to the girls about Malawi and the impact of the Lake Malawi ecosystem on the country.
During a luncheon for the group, Ms. Gaxiola shared success stories about how AGE Africa provides scholarships for education, leadership training and mentorship support for girls beyond high school. All were impressed with the Holy Cross girls they encountered on the school tour, especially how confident and comfortable they were with speaking to the visitors.
