Meet the Finalist: PRINCESS UMUL HATIYYA

Princess Umul Hatiyya's eponymous Foundation is one of the finalists to receive funds raised at Star 100 New York's annual Fundraiser.

STAR 100 NEW YORK: When did you start Princess Umul Hatiyya Foundation?
PRINCESS UMUL HATTIYA: PUH Foundation was started in January 2009.

*100: What inspired you to start the Foundation?
PUH: PUH Foundation was born out of the desire to see Africa transformed from a third world continent to a First Class continent and Education is the vehicle for this change.

*100: What is the Foundation's mission?
PUH: The PUH Foundation's mission is to build primary, secondary, and tertiary schools across Africa. Our mission is to also grant scholarships to brilliant, but needy students to pursue higher Education in 1st Class schools/universities (around the world).

*100: What have been the greatest challenges to accomplishing the Foundation's mission?
PUH: The biggest challenge to accomplishing this mission has been inadequate funding. However, we know that with our concerted effort and passion for what we do, we will overcome this hurdle.

*100: What has been the single most gratifying experience/victory you've had since you've been at the helm of the Foundation ?
PUH: The most gratifying experience has been embarking on a 650km bicycle ride from Accra to Tamale (or New York - Washington - New York) to raise funds to build a 6-classroom block, library, and toilet facilities for Nouri Imam Primary School. Completing the bicycle ride, the project, and seeing the lives of the children of Nouri Imam transformed has been the most gratifying experience I have ever had.