The Story Beyond I want to be foundation
The I Want to Be Foundation emerged from a profound recognition: that across Tanzania, children with extraordinary potential face extraordinary barriers. Where others saw insurmountable challenges, we saw opportunities for transformation. Where others heard silence, we listened for the voices waiting to be amplified.
Founded by a coalition of Tanzanian community leaders, educators, healthcare professionals, and international development experts, our organization bridges local wisdom with global best practices. We began by asking children themselves a simple yet powerful question: “What do you want to be?” Their answers revealed not only dreams but the roadmap for our work—addressing the interconnected barriers that stand between vulnerable children and their futures.
Today, we work alongside communities across Tanzania to create integrated support systems that nurture children’s development from every essential dimension. Our approach is both deeply rooted in local contexts and informed by rigorous evidence of what works to create lasting change. Empowering Dreams
Our Vision
We envision a world where every child, regardless of their circumstances, has the opportunity to unlock their full potential, dream without limits, and thrive in a life of dignity, hope, and purpose.
our mission
To identify underserved orphanages, assess their real needs, mobilize community support, and deliver transparent, accountable, and sustainable assistance.
Our Values
Our Objectives
1. Provide Access to Quality Education
Through our Kesho Bora Educational Initiative, we establish and support educational programs that ensure every child has access to safe, inclusive, and high-quality learning environments. By renovating 20 schools, training 400 educators annually, and providing scholarships to the most vulnerable, we equip children with the knowledge and skills needed to build brighter futures.
2. Promote Health and Well-being
Our Afya Bora, Maisha Bora Children’s Wellness Program implements comprehensive health and nutrition initiatives that address the physical, mental, and emotional needs of children. Through mobile health brigades, school gardens providing nutritious meals, and mental health support services, we ensure 15,000 children across 50 villages grow up healthy, strong, and ready to pursue their dreams.
3. Empower Through Life Skills and Leadership Training
The Amka Youth Leadership Academy develops and delivers life skills, leadership, and mentorship programs that foster self-confidence, critical thinking, and problem-solving abilities. By empowering 1,000 youth across 30 villages, we equip young people to overcome challenges, advocate for change, and achieve their aspirations.
4. Create Safe and Supportive Communities
Through our Nyumba ya Tumaini Child Haven Program and Mtoto Salama Community Program, we partner with local communities to create safe spaces where children are protected, valued, and encouraged to thrive. By transforming 15 orphanages into family-style homes and implementing comprehensive child protection systems in 50 villages, we engage families and stakeholders in sustainable development efforts.
5. Advocate for Children's Rights and Opportunities
Our Sauti Sahihi Advocacy Network champions the rights of children by advocating for policies and practices that promote equality, access to opportunities, and the elimination of barriers that hinder growth and development. By training 500 youth advocates and reaching 5 million Tanzanians through media campaigns, we ensure children’s voices shape the systems designed to serve them.
Our Impact Strategy
Immediate Intervention + Systemic Change
We balance addressing urgent needs with transforming the systems that create those needs. Each program delivers immediate support while simultaneously working to change structures, policies, and practices that perpetuate vulnerability.
Holistic Integration
Our six core programs work in concert, recognizing that children’s needs are interconnected. A child who is safe but unhealthy, educated but without leadership opportunities, or physically well but without a voice in their community cannot reach their full potential.
Measurable Outcomes
We commit to rigorous evaluation and transparent reporting. Each program has clear metrics for success, from the number of children directly served to longer-term indicators of systemic change. We continuously refine our approach based on evidence of what works.
Sustainable Development
We design programs with sustainability at the core, ensuring communities develop the capacity, resources, and commitment to continue positive change beyond our direct involvement. By cultivating local leadership at every level, we create lasting impact for generations to come.
Join Our Mission
The challenges facing Tanzania's children are complex, but with the right approach and partnerships, they are not insurmountable. With a total investment of $4.55 million over three years, we aim to reach over 90,000 children with comprehensive support that changes not just individual lives but entire communities.
We invite you to join us in this vital work—not simply as donors, but as partners in creating a Tanzania where every child can answer the question "What do you want to be?" with hope, confidence, and a clear path forward.