On 15 July 2026, the Vanessa Macamo Foundation visited the Malhazine Methodist Church Community School for an activity promoting reading and awareness of girls’ rights through the donation of the book “A Maria que Não Vai com as Outras”. The initiative was aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 3, Good Health and Well-Being, and SDG 4, Quality Education.
The activity aimed to encourage reading, promote literacy, recognise academic merit, foster dedication, discipline and perseverance, and help children and young people understand their rights, identify abuse and violence, seek support and recognise the importance of reporting harmful situations.
Welcome and presentation of the Foundation
The delegation was welcomed by the school community and leadership. The ceremony opened with remarks by Headteacher Olga Maria Raimundo Choro, who highlighted the initiative’s importance to pupils’ academic and personal development.
Vanessa Macamo presented the Foundation’s history, mission and principal projects, as well as its commitment to education, reading, social inclusion and the protection of children and young people. The activity also included Leonor Come, the school’s patron; Lucilene Siwa, Rapporteur of the Supervisory Board; and Josita Abega Chissumba, the Foundation’s Spokesperson.
Reading as a means of protection
Iva Mauaie, President of the Women Empowering Women Association (MEM) and author of the book, presented the work and explained its central message. She stressed that girls should understand their rights and should not remain silent when faced with abuse or violence.
A central moment was the presentation of ten copies of the book to pupils recognised for outstanding academic performance. Beneficiaries were selected on the basis of their school results and demonstrated interest in reading, and were encouraged to share what they learned with their classmates.
The activity also included the Dias couple, who presented and donated their own publications to the school. At the close of the event, the Headteacher and Pedagogical Director presented symbolic gifts to members of the delegation in appreciation of their contribution to the school community.
A renewed commitment
The visit took place in an atmosphere of dialogue, learning and celebration. The Vanessa Macamo Foundation reaffirmed its commitment to education, literacy, child protection and girls’ rights, contributing to more informed, aware and participatory communities.