Message from our Founder

When I founded my foundation, people often asked the reason behind it. I always struggled to answer this question and I felt like I needed to have a really bad experience to share as the reason behind it. Hence, I would simply say “it’s my story that led to the start of the foundation.” I actually did not have a particular story or experience in mind to pinpoint, until I started to search deep within myself. 

When I was 14 years old, I missed out on several weeks of school due to financial constraints  faced by my family. As a 14 year old, this was the worst thing that could have ever happened to me. I loved being at school and I thrived at school. It was extremely painful not to be able to attend and having constant desperation of wanting to go back. I remember praying to God, and just asking “God, if someone can just come and help me pay for my fees so I can go back.”

No one came. 

That is the story, that is why I founded my foundation. Only after six years of founding The Debbie De Foundation, am I able to openly share that story. It is because of the many other children and young girls in desperate need praying for someone to help them, that I do what I do. When I was alone, I realised just how much help I needed. The Debbie De Foundation does not promise to save anyone, but you can be assured that we will help and we will make a difference in the lives of children, young girls and women from marginalised communities. 

Our initiatives are primarily focused on ensuring that no child or young girl is ever left behind. From our literacy programs to our reusable sanitary pads drive, we ensure that we fill any gap that hinders children and young girls’ school attendance. As a foundation, we also pride ourselves in our sustainable practices and ability to make a real difference. If you are reading this today, I hope you are moved to be a part of our movement. Join us in actively making a difference