Uniquely's partnership with Tír na nÓg: A Journey of Empowerment and Hope

Our journey with Tír na nÓg began in 2020 when we were profoundly moved by the Kilimanjaro Mama documentary. The film highlights Louise Quill's inspirational efforts to provide a family unit for orphaned and abandoned children in Tanzania. Her dedication resonated deeply with us, and it wasn’t long before our team, inspired by the film, felt compelled to support Tír na nÓg as our chosen charity through our CSR programme.

Founded in 2007 by Louise Quill following her volunteer work in Tanzania, Tír na nÓg Orphanage has grown into a beacon of hope and opportunity. With the support of local leaders Pastor Cletus and Monica Tukai, Louise established a home that offers much more than shelter; it provides a nurturing environment where children can feel valued and reach their potential.

When we began with Tír na nÓg, it supported over 60 children, offering education and sustainable community projects. Their two operational farms, which served as educational tools and sources of sustenance, supported over 400 people daily. The Tír na nÓg Kindergarten and Primary School provided quality education to more than 300 children, ensuring that the next generation had the tools to succeed.

In October 2021, Louise and the team celebrated a significant milestone with the groundbreaking ceremony for the new Children's Village Project. This event at the Boma site was attended by over 100 people, including school and religious community members, Tanzanian Directors Monica and Pastor Tukai, and the devoted staff of Tír na nÓg. TheGuest of Honour, Mrs Upendo Uwera, the District Executive Secretary, was warmly welcomed by a vibrant performance from the school Scout leaders.

This ceremony marked the beginning of Phase 1 of the project, which includes constructing three cottages, a dining block (featuring a library, laundry, kitchen, social room, etc.), a guard’s post, water and solar supplies, wastewater filtration systems and a boundary wall. The completion of this phase was anticipated and delivered within 12 months, after which the project transitioned smoothly into Phase 2. The new facility provides essential accommodation, protection and care for Tanzania’s most disadvantaged children, as well as weekday housing for children from impoverished families attending the school.

To witness this exciting progress and vision for the new Children’s Village, you can watch the video below!

April 28th, 2023, was a poignant day as the children of Tír na nÓg moved from their long-time home to the new Tír na nÓg Children's Village. This transition, though bittersweet, was a dream come true. Despite the cramped and modest conditions of their old home, it had been a place of happiness and belonging. The new village provides beautiful homes that offer a nurturing environment, ensuring the children can thrive.

This move signifies not only a fresh start but also a testament to the unwavering support of everyone who believed in and contributed to Tír na nÓg's mission. The joy and gratitude felt by the community are beyond words and the impact on the future of these children is profound.

You can see the end result 

At Uniquely, we are proud to stand alongside Tír na nÓg in their mission to nurture, educate and empower the children and communities of Tanzania. Together, we are making an uncommon difference, one that echoes our belief in the power of human connection and the importance of placing people at the centre of every interaction.