The Aicha Diaw Memorial Scholarship

Aicha Diaw's life was defined by love, strength, and service. She spent time in Yeumbeul, Senegal, supporting her family and was well known and deeply loved within her community. She always sought ways to help others, whether it was family, neighbors, childhood friends, or anyone in need.

As the eldest daughter and among the first in her family to move to the United States in the early 1990s, she carried a deep sense of responsibility. She worked tirelessly to support her parents, siblings, and relatives, always putting others before herself. Her generosity and compassion extended far beyond her family, touching the lives of many.

For over 20 years, Aicha lived with illness, yet she never stopped searching for answers or ways to heal. She remained determined, continuing to advocate for herself and explore every possibility, all while still showing up for others with the same love and care. Her strength, patience, and resilience defined her journey. On January 21st, 2024, she passed, leaving behind a legacy of unwavering compassion and quiet strength.

The Aicha Diaw Memorial Scholarship continues her legacy by providing young girls in West Africa access to education and new opportunities, breaking barriers for girls in underserved communities across Africa. The program was successfully launched in Senegal in 2023 and will be launched in Ghana for the 2025–2026 school year. In collaboration with Semegachange, this expansion seeks to scale up educational sponsorship, integrate creative learning tools, and foster empowerment through innovative educational programs.

In doing so, it carries forward the same love, generosity, and sense of responsibility that defined her life. This scholarship honors her spirit by uplifting others, just as she always did, and by opening doors for the next generation to grow, succeed, and give back in her name. Since 2023, the program has awarded full-tuition scholarships to 15 girls. Her name will continue to live on through every life this scholarship touches.

The child sponsorship fee is $300 annually; there's no monthly option. The sponsorship covers full tuition for a girl to attend private school and uniform.