A Note From Our Executive Director
In 2004 I was working on a film in Namibia called Flight of the Phoenix, where I met a young boy named Steven A’resb. He was trying to sell me special ‘rocks’ he’d collected around the Spitzkoppe Mountains, and impressed me with his extensive scientific knowledge, nevertheless, I couldn’t bring myself to buy a chunk of rose quartz. I liked him though so I bought a small key chain and when I turned to go he shouted, “can you send me exercise books and pencils?”
I was touched that he would ask for school supplies that would cost me less than $1.00 at my local store, and I could tell from the earnest look on his face that it would mean the world to him. I managed to send Steven a care package and in so doing, I realized that I wanted to do more for the millions of other Stevens out there. All the children living in remote communities without access to all the things that I benefited from…the public school education, the free libraries, the generous scholarships to attend college and summer sessions at different institutions.
When I look back on my life, all I can see is how blessed I am, and this foundation is a way for us to give back, lift up, and shower love on the most vulnerable and disadvantaged children in the world. There’s a lot to do, but we’re not only up for the challenge, we’re honored to have the chance to do it.
-Tilu Khalayi
