Empowering Dreams: The Evelyn S. Weatherspoon Scholarship is Changing Lives
In East Africa, many talented young people—especially those from vulnerable areas like the slums where GDP works—face major barriers to higher education. UNESCO reports that only 8% of sub-Saharan African youth access tertiary education, far below the global average. For many young adults in the Children’s Homes supported by the Global Development Project (GDP), pursuing higher education often seems out of reach due to financial challenges. Yet these students consistently excel academically and have a strong desire to continue learning—a dream GDP is committed to making possible.
To support these deserving students, GDP created the Evelyn S. Weatherspoon Scholarship Fund, honoring an inspiring educator who believed every child has unique potential. This fund provides full tuition for young adults from GDP’s Children’s Homes who have been accepted into accredited trade schools or higher education institutions approved by GDP’s Educational Board of Advisors. It turns dreams into reality, giving students the chance to build careers, futures, and contribute back to their communities.
Each year, several gifted students benefit from this scholarship, which covers an average tuition cost of $1,250 USD annually as long as they remain in good standing. With your help, GDP can expand the program—$12,500 funds scholarships for 10 students, breaking cycles of poverty through education. You can also sponsor a full four-year scholarship for $5,000 USD (paid monthly) in honor of a loved one, or contribute any amount monthly to the scholarship fund. Every gift makes a meaningful difference.
By partnering with the Evelyn S. Weatherspoon Scholarship Fund, you help ignite the same hope and confidence that inspired Evelyn and the GDP co-founders. Your support nurtures the next generation of leaders, innovators, and change-makers in East Africa—turning potential into powerful impact.
