Founded by IB Diploma students Zoe Ahaghotu '27 and Chisom Achebe '27, Uplifting Through Education is composed of George School students and is dedicated to mentoring students of color across Pennsylvania and New Jersey through empowering activities and personalized tutoring.

Zoe and Chisom were inspired to create this initiative during their time at George School for their IB Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS) Project to motivate and support high school students — especially students of color. They decided to tackle the problem at its start, creating an organization that focuses on nurturing young kids of color to realize their academic and personal potential at an early age. 

“The system of education lacks support in certain school districts with a high percentage of students of color, resulting in a lack of empowerment and support for these children,” shared Chisom, who is excited to continue work with young students in less funded districts and partner with other organizations to accomplish their mission.

The organization made their debut at Newtown Friends School, where they hosted a series of empowering activities to help set the foundation for their programming and future events. The students participated in creating “I Am, I Will, and I Can” cards, reflecting on their current successes and setting up future goals for themselves. 

They also decorated “My Power Portraits,” which are self-portraits surrounded by words that represent their strengths. The group concluded the session with a fun dance led by two members of the George School dance team.

“We’re incredibly proud of this milestone and the positive impact it’s already had,” reflected Zoe and Chisom. In the future, they are planning to partner with schools in Trenton, New Jersey, work in local libraries, and host events with the Boys and Girls Clubs in local underserved communities.
 
Zoe and Chisom are looking forward to the impact they can make with Uplifting Through Education. “Our ultimate mission is to encourage students of color to soar beyond the systematically poor education system and attain higher learning!”

Learn more and connect with Zoe and Chisom here.