Tovovavy Mendrika is a United States 501(c)3 charity nonprofit that focus on enlightening, empowering and engaging our youth through community service, leadership development and life skills training.
Our Story
Tovovavy Mendrika was established in 2014 by Rasheika Robinson, a Returned Peace Corps Volunteer (RPCV). In 2013, Rasheika joined the Peace Corps and collaborated with her community partner in Vinaninkarena, a rural village in Madagascar located just south of the larger city of Antsirabe. Despite its proximity to the city, the village faces numerous challenges, particularly in education. The disparities in educational opportunities for young people are immediately apparent, with young girls facing significant obstacles in their personal and professional development due to limited resources, rigid gender roles, and a lack of awareness about available opportunities. Many young girls become sexually active at an early age and lack proper training in sexual health, especially concerning HIV/AIDS awareness and prevention. Promoting a healthy lifestyle is crucial for these girls to achieve their life goals, and raising awareness and empowerment are necessary to encourage them to take the steps needed to reach these goals. As a result, educators, parents, and community members recognize Tovovavy Mendrika Association as a valuable tool for promoting youth and community development through the short-term transfer of global knowledge and the long-term cultivation of strong, positive role models that drive behavioral change.
“And one day she discovered that she was fierce and strong, and full of fire and that not even she could hold herself back because her passion burned brighter than her fears.” Mark Anthony
Tovovavy Mendrika offers a unique opportunity designed to engage high school and college students in their local communities and communities abroad.
“Everyone has inside of her a piece of good news. The good news is that you don’t know how great you can be, how much you can love, what you can accomplish, and what your potential is.” - Anne Frank
Our Mission
Inspiring, uplifting and motivating youth to set tangible life goals and action plans to increase positive life skills development and reduce negative outcomes.
20%
young girls not in school
66%
women account for those in the world that are illiterate
23%
young girls in rural and developing countries that will be married before 18
Camp participants receiving lessons from Project Jeune Leaders, a local NGO that focuses on women’s empowerment and the development of young girls.
Get Involved
Donations are also vital to our ability to help educate and empower our students and their families.