Community Outreach in Zimbabwe

TINI empowers vulnerable children at Tichakunda Orphanage by bringing the joy of learning into their Early Childhood Development (ECD) class.

 

With donated Montessori materials and thoughtfully arranged shelves, children explore, create, and discover at their own pace, fostering curiosity, independence, and self-confidence. Teachers receive support through ongoing coaching and mentorship by the team at Joyful Montessori School using observation, immersion, and workshops. 

The impact is profound: children are more engaged, eager to learn, and confident in their abilities, while teachers are inspired to guide lessons that nurture each child’s unique potential. This approach supports SDG 4: Quality Education, providing a foundation for lifelong learning and growth.
For the children of Tichakunda, every day in the Montessori classroom is a place where they feel seen, capable, and empowered to dream big.

TINI empowers vulnerable children at Tichakunda Orphanage to become change makers in their own lives and communities. Through our adolescent Erkinder sustainability project, teenagers take the lead in hands-on initiatives like chicken rearing, egg production, vegetable farming, and fish farming. Guided by Montessori principles, they learn responsibility, independence, and problem-solving while seeing the tangible results of their hard work.

These projects go beyond supporting skill development to create sustainable change in systems. By connecting to the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) such as zero hunger (2), decent work and economic growth (8), and responsible consumption and production (12), the teenagers contribute to the well-being of their entire community. So far, they have sold over 200 chickens, produced their own protein through eggs, and supplied fresh vegetables to local families, creating both nourishment and opportunity.

For these young people, each seed planted and each chicken cared for is a lesson in hope, resilience, and possibility. Through sustainability, entrepreneurship, and Montessori-inspired learning, they are not just surviving- they are thriving, leading, and inspiring others around them.

Our newest project beginning in 2026. Using Montessori pedagogy to support teenage mothers in the high-density area of Hatcliffe Extension, we aim to create better outcomes for mothers and children through bilingual (Shona/English) programming. The program consists of mommy and me Montessori classes, early intervention and relational supports, project-based learning, literacy instruction, and workforce skill development, working to support UN Sustainable Goals of gender equality (5) and access to quality education (4).

 

A practicum opportunity for TINI Credential students based in the Harare, Zimbabwe area.

Do you have an idea for a project in the U.S. or abroad? Let us know how we can support- Contact Form

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Interested in getting involved? We love hosting teachers to volunteer, accept in-kind and monetary donations, and would love to partner with Montessori schools for service learning. Fill out this form to Get in Touch