“Small efforts can make major impacts”.

In January 2022, the sisters Hannah, Marieke and Karen van de Veen, established the Sisters for Sisters foundation. The driving force behind this foundation originated from their personal experiences in Kenya and Ethiopia, where they encountered woman and children in distressing situations, and felt the need to do more. Hannah shared, “We often received requests for help, whether it was for money, someone needing to see a doctor, or simply having no funds for groceries.”

Before founding the foundation, they assisted various women and children using theirincomes. Over time, the sisters realized that they weren’t the only ones willing to help these women and children. With the Sisters for Sisters foundation, more people can become involved in improving the living conditions for women and children in East African countries.

Hannah described a story that marked the beginning of the foundation: “Part of my family resides in Kenya. On a visitor’s day just before my nephew and niece’s exams, I discovered that one girl in their class received no visitors and couldn’t receive an exam kit. The realization that she lacked the means to perform well in the exams deeply moved me. With just a few euros, I could arrange an exam kit, which meant a lot to her. Later, we found out she had no financial resources to pursue further studies. We made this possible for her.”

The mission of Sisters for Sisters is clear: to provide urgent assistance to women and children in Kenya and Ethiopia. The foundation’s name emphasizes the importance of solidarity and support within these communities. Marieke stated, “In Africa, women bear an enormous burden juggling numerous responsibilities, such as cooking, childcare, and even chopping wood for fire. While we turn on our washing machines and go grocery shopping here, they experience a full day’s work. Girls, too, often don’t get the chance to do what they love because it is necessary that they help with household chores. This often places a significant burden on the shoulders of women and children.”

Sisters for Sisters has taken concrete steps to help people. They have financially supported athletes during maternity leave or extended injuries and provided financial assistance to women and children facing difficult situations. Marieke added, “We once helped an African woman who had been put on the street by her ex-husband. She was in a bad state, both physically and mentally, and had no family or friends to take her in. Then she approached us. Thanks to Sisters for Sisters, she received the help she needed.” Hannah continued, “People find us approachable and open, and that’s comforting. Sometimes they think, ‘Maybe we can ask Hannah or Marieke.’ We want to radiate this accessibility with Volare Sports as well. We are here for those who need us.”

Sisters for Sisters keeps the support small-scale but effective. Even in the long term, the foundation aims to focus on the acute, urgent needs of women and children in Kenya and Ethiopia. Additionally, Sisters for Sisters believes it’s crucial to make these women and children feel that they are not alone.

With small contributions, one can make a significant difference in the lives of others. Hannah concludes with a powerful statement: “If everyone could set aside a few euros per month for those who truly need it, the world would become a bit more beautiful and safer.”

Sisters for Sisters shines a light where it is dark and gloomy. The foundation inspires others to pay attention to those who need it most. Small acts can have a significant impact on the lives of women and children in Kenya and Ethiopia. It can give them a sign of hope and it can be the push in the right direction. Especially during Christmas, a period of unity and gratitude, it is essential to reflect on those facing difficulties in the world. Would you like to contribute to the Sisters for Sisters foundation? You can do so via this link.