It was no easy task to select what to include in this inaugural issue,what could we focus on that would embody the work we are doing, the courage and spirit of our mothers, the small and large triumphs of our staff?  And so, what we have chosen as the thread that ties it all together is hope…the hope that m2m has brought to thousands of women, the strength that the Mothers give to one another, and the hope that results from successful partnerships.

For those of you who have kept track of us since our birth in 2001, you will be amazed by the simple facts. Today we have a total of 190 sites in six countries: South Africa, Kenya, Lesotho, Zambia, Rwanda, and Swaziland.  By mid to late 2008, we will have rolled out in Malawi as well. Over 700 Mentor Mothers and Site Coordinators are employed to support the program in these sites, who together, reach almost 60,000 mothers per month.

One of our first international efforts focused on Kenya, a country torn by socio-economic and political turmoil. Keeping sites operating under such a hostile environment brought its own challenges, here is our story. Never could we have anticipated that the launch of our first sites would occur during the week of the election that rocked the country.  In her account, m2m Country Director, Milker Simba, shares through first-hand experience the day-to-day obstacles and horrible atmosphere that consumed the entire country. And we bring you a special account of extraordinary bravery, recalling the amazing journey of Site Coordinator Mthakene Metsing, a shining role model of the powerful women that become empowered by our program. Raped, pregnant and faced with the possibly of passing the virus to her newborn, Metsing’s personal tragedy and triumph was internationally recognized by UNICEF UK’s Ambassador Jemima Khan, here is The Blessing, a poignant video on her struggle. We also celebrate the prestigious Skoll Entrepreneurial Award, one of the most revered honors bestowed in recognition of the work done by NGOs. And lastly, an account of a local partnership really making a difference.

All of this brings us back to hope. For those of you who have been supporters, we hope that these newsletters will make you proud of your association and feel a closer link to the mothers who are the heart and soul of mothers2mothers. For those of you who just became acquainted with our organisation, we hope this gives you an insight into the program that will move you to greater involvement.  

Robin Smalley
Co-Founder/International Director
mothers2mothers
Telephone: +1 323 704 6195
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