DAR ES SALAAM: THE Tanzanian model based in France, Miriam Odemba, has been awarded a special recognition by the leadership of Salvation Army Primary School in Temeke for her outstanding contribution to the institution and vulnerable children.
The award was presented on her birthday which she celebrated differently by giving out donations and sharing meals with pupils alongside leaders of the Miriam Odemba Foundation (MOF).
This is not the first time for the Tanzanian beauty pageant to conduct such activities as it has become a tradition for the celebrated model to mark her birthday by supporting children with special needs and vulnerable groups through her foundation.
In an interview with the Daily News shortly after receiving the award, Odemba said she does not consider herself better than others, but rather a woman with a responsibility to give back to a society that genuinely loves and supports her.
According to Ms Odemba, her greatest happiness is seeing children eat well, dress properly, play freely, and access education so they can achieve their dreams with confidence.
Additionally, she encouraged children with disabilities not to lose hope, saying disability does not limit success, happiness or determination.
“True strength lies within one’s heart and mindset,” she said.
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However, commenting on the various activities done by her foundation, she said through MOF, she has spearheaded the construction of classrooms and water wells, while directly supporting women and children, particularly girls.
“The foundation has implemented campaigns aimed at promoting education, nurturing talents, instilling moral values and advocating for physical and mental health development,” she said.
Since its establishment, MOF has carried out several impactful initiatives, including donating to vulnerable children at Salvation Army Orphanage in Temeke (November 28, 2021), contributing 10,000 US dollars toward a water project in Mkuranga District, Coast Region (August 30, 2019), a project that continues to benefit residents and supporting classroom construction at Mwongozo Primary School in Mkuranga (October 9, 2019) after identifying overcrowding challenges.
Others include providing clean and safe water to rural primary schools during Human Rights Week commemorations (December 10, 2019) and celebrating the foundation’s birthday with students at Dar es Salaam Girls Secondary School on February 19, 2025, where they offered mentorship and motivational talks to inspire girls to pursue their dreams.
In recognition of its efforts, MOF was awarded a certificate of appreciation by the Baraza la Sanaa Tanzania (BASATA) for its contribution to arts and cultural development.
