On Friday, September 1, 2023, at 3 p.m., the International WeLoveU Foundation donated 350 new backpacks to students in the Maracanã Cultural and Sports Association. The decision to host the backpack donation came the day before when WeLoveU representatives met Cabo Verde’s President José Maria Neves. The volunteer’s passion for helping the island on the western coast of Africa resulted in swift action to advance quality education.

The Maracanã Cultural and Sports Association is a sports association whose slogan is “The way to happiness.” Established in 2014, they’re located in one of the poorest neighborhoods in the capital of Cabo Verde — the City of Praia. They enroll students without charge to promote social inclusion and equality of opportunity and reduce juvenile delinquency. Like WeLoveU’s founder, their values align with solidarity, humility, and inclusion.

Zahng Gil-jah, the Founder of the WeLoveU Foundation, has been advocating for inclusive, equitable, and quality education for nearly 30 years. Children, adolescents, and young adults who are leaders of the future global community receive scholarships, school supplies, and improved school facilities through WeLoveU’s education program. In addition to donating school-related tools, the Chairwoman hosts lectures with families with children to foster good character and values.

For the past month and a half, WeLoveU has donated new backpacks to students across the United States under its Packs on Backs & Tools for Schools program. The donation to students in Cabo Verde marks the first overseas backpack donation organized by the WeLoveU USA headquarters. By supporting students in Cabo Verde, each child can focus and feel confident as they enter a new school year.