ASEC News

In Her Words: A Heart that Appreciates 'Mother ASEC'

African Sisters Education Collaborative (ASEC)

On the left: Sr. Magdalena showcases the manuals she has been able to write for her congregation as a result of her education. On the right: Sr. Magdalena mentors youth on basic technology skills.


In 2019, Sr. Magdalena Laurent Izengo started her courses through ASEC's SLDI program in Tanzania. Since then, she has used her knowledge and skills to secure funding for projects that keep children in her community safe. Read about it in her own words.

I would like to start by introducing myself. My name is Sr. Magdalena  Laurent Izengo. I am a Tanzanian working in the Archdiocese of Dar es salaam as a member of  the Congregation of the Little Sisters of St. Francis of Assisi. I am working as an Assistant Mother Superior. I graduated as an SLDI student last year after attending the ASEC course for three years (2019-2021). I have been in leadership for six years.

As a member of the group of ASEC alumnae, I appreciate the  knowledge I received in three years of courses and a site workshop. The course and the workshop have brought the following impacts in the children, people and within my congregation:

I have written three projects up to this moment. The project which has already received funding is  the project of child protection. This grant allowed us to obtain security cameras to make the school  a safer environment. Thank God! Now the children are happy and there is no more abuse to our children. The children are aware of  their rights and they can report any case of abuse immediately. 

I thank God for the competence and skills I obtained from the course. Aside from what  I have mentioned, I also was able to carry out a project to obtain construction on a nearby Catholic diocese. I have written a project for water in Dodoma region. Now the Congregation is using me as a  project writer after I have been empowered by Mother ASEC and my education. I am hoping the response will be positive despite the economical challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the current war between Ukraine and Russia. 

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Children in Tanzania benefit from the Project of Child Protection carried out by ASEC-SLDI alumnae Sr. Magdalena

Children in Tanzania benefit from the Project of Child Protection carried out by ASEC-SLDI alumnae Sr. Magdalena

Apart from writing projects, I’m now competent in computer skills. I am mentoring the young sisters who came to join us so that they acquire some computer knowledge instead of having to employ someone outside of the organization. I can do all the secretarial work in my office without a  problem. Attending courses through ASEC simplified my work.  

In my leadership role, I have succeeded in making all the manuals needed by the Congregation to carry out tasks. This means that even coming leadership will enjoy an easier transition as a result of participation in ASEC.

I am proud of the programs run by Mother ASEC in Tanzania and Africa at large. May God bless abundantly the Hilton Foundation and all those who coordinate and  supervise the programs for the benefit of the Church in Africa. I am hopeful the impacts of  empowering sisters will continue from one generation to another. God bless you all.

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This article is addressing the following UN Sustainable Development Goal(s):

Ensure inclusive and quality education for all and promote lifelong learning Sustainable Cities and Communities Promote just, peaceful and inclusive societies
Sr. Magdalena Laurent Izengo

Sr. Magdalena Laurent Izengo
Author
Congregation of the Little Sisters of St. Francis of Assisi - Tanzania  

Monica Simon

Monica Simon
Editor
Former Web Content Manager - USA  

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