Creating space on the court for young women players to grow their skills.

Her Time to Shine aims to address the offerings for basketball and education programs available to young women. Pamoja is in partnership with the local schools and has been able to lead basketball programs for up to 100 girls from different schools at each program! We focus on skills training, community building, and providing safe spaces for young women to play. The entire Pamoja family comes out to support, uplift, and cheer on their female teammates!

Our coaches and female mentors are working to break a long-standing stigma in Tanzania. Young women have traditionally been denied access to sports and are twice as likely to drop out as young men. Parents and guardians have also expressed apprehension about letting their daughters get involved with extra activities outside of school. Pamoja has created an environment of trust within the community.

Beyond skill building at these camps, Pamoja is breaking the silence on gender issues we see in our community. Young women are learning self-defense, how and when to say NO, and where they can seek help, support, and mentorship. They also access important menstrual hygiene education and management training from our female coaches and mentors. A positive relationship with a role model can make an immense difference in the development and growth of a young person. Pamoja recognizes our platform and ability to address these gaps in support given to our young women.