Buendedi Monthly Update – August Edition

Steps Forward: Partnership, Marathon & the Gift of Giving

Dear Friends of Buendedi,

As summer draws to a close, we’re celebrating milestones and looking ahead with hope. In this issue, we update you on our progress and invite you to join us in what’s next.

Partnership on the Horizon: A New Chapter in Kinshasa

For months, we’ve been nurturing a relationship with a school in the heart of Kinshasa. With every meeting, the vision of a shared mission becomes clearer: a place where children can learn, grow, and dream without limits. We’ve visited classrooms buzzing with potential and listened to teachers speak about the challenges they face—and the possibilities that a partnership with Buendedi could unlock.

Now, we’re thrilled to say that we’re nearing an official launch. Agreements are being finalized, curriculum plans are aligning, and excitement is building on both sides. When we cut the ribbon on this partnership, it will signify not just a formal collaboration but a promise to the students of Kinshasa: that their education matters and their dreams deserve support. Stay tuned for the announcement—we can’t wait to introduce you to the bright faces whose futures you’re helping to shape

Running for Our Future: The End‑of‑Year Marathon Campaign

Our executive director, Pierre Mbala, has always believed that leadership is about showing up—on the ground and on the move. This year, he’s taking that conviction to the streets by running a marathon to coincide with our end‑of‑year campaign. Each mile he trains and each step he takes symbolizes the journey our students make from obstacle to opportunity.

The marathon isn’t just a personal challenge; it’s a rallying cry. We’ll be launching a campaign where supporters can pledge donations per mile, organize community runs in solidarity, and share messages of encouragement with Pierre and the kids he’s running for. As Pierre trains under the hot sun and in the early morning chill, he often thinks of the students who walk miles each day just to attend school. His run is for them. We invite you to join us—whether by contributing, spreading the word, or lacing up your own running shoes—and make this campaign a celebration of resilience and hope.

Celebrating Our First Online Donation: A Heartfelt Thanks

Every movement starts with a single step, and every campaign starts with a single gift. This month, we received our very first donation through our new website. The notification pinged on our phones and brought smiles and a few tears to our team’s eyes. It was a friend of the organization—someone who believes in Buendedi’s vision—who clicked “donate” and entrusted us with their support.

That first donation is more than a number on a ledger. It’s a sign that the seeds we’ve been planting—launching the site, sharing our stories, inviting people into our mission—are beginning to grow. We want to express our deepest gratitude to everyone who has cheered us on, shared our updates, and contributed financially. Your belief in Buendedi fuels our work and reminds us that we’re not alone in this journey

Looking Ahead: Join Us

In the coming weeks, we’ll announce the official partnership launch date, roll out details for the marathon campaign, and share more stories from the students and communities we serve. We hope you’ll stay connected, spread the word, and consider how you can be part of this movement—by donating, volunteering, or simply sharing our story with someone new.

Together, we are turning small steps into giant leaps for education and opportunity in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Thank you for being part of Buendedi’s story.

How You Can Help

Your support—whether through donations, purchases, or spreading the word—means the world. As we rebuild, here’s how you can make an immediate impact:

Send this site to someone who cares about education and Africa.

Partner with us: Get involved with volunteering. Know an organization or individual we should meet? Reach out!

Together, we’re laying every brick for a brighter future in the DRC.

With gratitude,

Pierre Mbala
Executive Director, Buendedi