Jawanza Sanga Fraser’s journey to giving back began with a memory that has stayed with him for years. As a child, he vividly recalls the first day of school, when he would walk into class and see his peers proudly displaying new school supplies and backpacks, while he struggled with worn-out items. That sense of being left out lingered, shaping his resolve to ensure that no child would feel that way under his watch.
Inspired by his own experiences, Jawanza wanted to make a difference. The idea of providing school bags to needy children took shape with the encouragement of Jamal Ballantyne from New York and his grandmother, who shared his vision for community support.
Determined to help, Jawanza began his mission. He didn’t focus on specific communities but aimed to reach those who needed help the most. His approach was simple yet effective. For instance, if he saw an elderly woman in Paul’s Avenue walking with her grandchildren, he would approach her, offer school bags, and gather feedback. Often, he would include extras for her to share with others in her community.
Despite his efforts, Jawanza faced significant challenges. Securing the necessary funds to purchase 400 school bags, each filled with essential supplies like notebooks, rulers, and pencils, proved to be a daunting task. The financial strain was considerable, but Jawanza, along with his childhood friend Jamal Ballantine and his cousin Zane Hector, both based in New York, persevered.
Their collective efforts paid off, and the school bags were distributed successfully. While he did not actively seek feedback, the positive impact of his work was evident in the grateful smiles and relieved expressions of the children and families who received the donations.
Looking ahead, Jawanza sees this initiative as just the beginning. His experiences have fueled a vision where the possibilities are endless. “This is only the start,” he reflects. “The sky is the limit.”
His message to others who might be inspired by his work is clear: “Each one helps one. Always put kids first because they are the next generation. Don’t just talk about helping—take action.”
Jawanza Sanga Fraser’s story is one of personal transformation and a deep-seated desire to make a difference, turning his childhood experience into a beacon of hope for others.