It was in August 2016 when I landed in the United States of America as a Kennedy-Lugar Youth Exchange and Study (YES) student from Tanzania. It was my first time crossing the borders of my country, and I was very excited to experience the [many cultures] in the U.S. while also sharing the rich culture of Tanzania.
I was placed in Oakland, New Jersey, with a wonderful host family led by Ann Ford, whom I fondly call Mom. Through the program, I was given the opportunity to create lifelong bonds that I still cherish to this day. I lived as part of the family, sharing Tanzanian traditions while learning about American culture. It was amazing to see how people were eager and happy to learn about Tanzania, and many expressed their dream of one day visiting to experience its natural beauty and the warmth of its people.
My host family gave me a new perspective on life. One of the greatest lessons my host mom taught me was this: “It’s not good, it’s not bad, it’s just different.” These words helped me adjust to life in the U.S. and appreciate [different cultures] without judgment. They also shaped how I now view the world through the lens of respect and openness.
During my exchange year, I discovered the power of volunteerism. I contributed over 100 hours of community service, an achievement I had never envisioned for myself. I realized that many aspects of community development require our in-kind support, and that volunteerism plays a key role in helping communities grow. This sparked a spirit of giving that continues to guide my work today. I also had the privilege of attending Civic Education Week in Washington, D.C., where I learned about the U.S. government, civil society, and leadership. This experience reshaped my understanding of civic responsibility and allowed me to form lasting friendships with fellow exchange students from more than 20 countries.
When I returned home, I was no longer the same young girl who had left. I was a more confident and determined young woman, ready to make a difference in my community. My public speaking skills had greatly improved, and my passion for leadership was stronger than ever. At university, I held several leadership positions, ranging from Class Representative to General Secretary of the University Students’ Organization. Beyond academics, I led community initiatives, including health campaigns, school outreach sessions with girls, and tree-planting projects. Through these efforts, I motivated over 1,000 young girls to stay in school rather than drop out for early marriage, and I planted more than 100 trees in support of climate action.
The resilience and courage I developed during the YES Program opened doors to numerous opportunities within and outside Tanzania. Living in a society where many still believe girls are destined only for marriage, I have worked to challenge stereotypes by living as proof of what is possible when girls are supported. Today, parents’ perceptions are beginning to change, because I stand as living proof that girls can succeed if they are supported.
Today, I proudly serve as a full-time Health Administrator, overseeing healthcare management at the district level, while continuing to inspire young people, especially girls, to dream big and pursue their goals.
The YES Program was more than just an exchange; it was a transformation. It instilled in me the confidence to lead, the determination to serve, and the courage to keep trying until I succeed. My journey reminds me every day that when young people are empowered with opportunities, they not only transform their own lives but also the communities around them.
Written by Thereza J. from Tanzania