We recently discussed the project with Director Gladstone and he is referencing the Gate 1 Foundation Director, Zack Hagert.
Gate 1 Foundation: Today we’re joined by Mr. Samson Gladstone, Director of the Community Childcare Foundation, to talk about an exciting new project that’s bringing hope and opportunity to children in Tanzania. Welcome, Samson! Can you start by telling us more about yourself?
Samson: Thank you! My name is Samson Gladstone, and I serve as the Director of the Community Childcare Foundation. You can call me Samson or Director Gladstone — either works!
Gate 1 Foundation: Thank you for discussing this with us, today. Please tell us about the school you’re building.
Samson: The school is called Gift Academy, and it is a new primary school in our community. We also operate the St. Paul Pre-primary in Arusha and we’re leading to support the children in need — especially those who don’t have the support yet to define their own futures. Our goal is to give them access to quality education in a safe and supportive environment.
Gate 1 Foundation: Wonderful. What inspired this project?
Samson: Honestly, it’s the children. Seeing how many of them lack access to education or guidance — that’s what drives us. This school is for them, and we are building it to be free for those families who need it most.
Gate 1 Foundation: Who will benefit from the school once it’s completed?
Samson: The primary beneficiaries are children in need and their families. We want to create a place where they can learn, grow, and eventually help lift their families out of poverty.
Gate 1 Foundation: What are some of the key goals for Gift Academy?
Samson: Our main goal is to establish a school that provides quality education. We’re especially focused on English, Math, and Science — subjects that can open doors for these kids in the future.
Gate 1 Foundation: How do you see this project impacting the wider community?
Samson: Education changes everything. When children are educated, they can support their families and break the cycle of poverty. This school is an investment in the entire community’s future.
Gate 1 Foundation: What support have you received to make this happen?
Samson: We’ve received incredible support from The Gate 1 Foundation. They helped us build two classrooms, an office, school lavatories, and our grant included the installation of solar power. It’s been a huge boost.
Gate 1 Foundation: That’s fantastic. Any key partners you’d like to acknowledge?
Samson: Yes — Zack’s support has been invaluable throughout this journey. We have been in contact through the whole process from early discussions last year to the construction during this year.
Gate 1 Foundation: We are glad to hear that. How has the local community been involved?
Samson: The community has really stepped up. They’ve helped with site clean-up and have been very supportive throughout the process.
Gate 1 Foundation: Were there any challenges along the way?
Samson: The rainy season was tough. We had to pause construction until the heavy rain passed. But we are a resilient community, and we have pushed through.
Gate 1 Foundation: What’s the status of the project as of today?
Samson: We’ve installed the windows and doors. Next up is painting — we’re getting close!
Gate 1 Foundation: What are you hearing from the community?
Samson: Everyone is so appreciative of the support from the Gate 1 Foundation. At the end of November, parents from our former school will visit the new site to see where their children will be studying. Zack will also be available to answer community questions.
Gate 1 Foundation: I know you also were interested in hosting exchange visits and community services on-site. Have you had any visitors yet?
Samson: Not yet, but we’re hopeful. We’re ready to welcome anyone who wants to see progress. We did have some visitors who heard of our work, and they brought an assortment of supplies for our children. We did not yet have the school constructed, so I met with them in the community. We are so thankful.
Gate 1 Foundation: If someone wants to support or visit, how can they get in touch?
Samson: They can reach out to us on our website here: Community Childcare Foundation and someone from our team will reply. If they’d like to visit, and are interested in donating necessary supplies, they’re welcome to bring clothes, or teaching materials.
Gate 1 Foundation: What’s next for you and the school?
Samson: We’re hoping to get a school van. The new site is about 2 kilometers from the old one, and transportation will be helpful to make sure students can get to and from school safely. We hope to be able to have computers eventually that our students will be able to use.
Gate 1 Foundation: Samson, thank you for sharing your story. It’s inspiring to see how your hard work and persistence can make such a big difference for the community.
Samson: Thank you for the opportunity. We’re excited about what’s ahead.
Note: Gift Academy is currently under construction and is expected to be completed in early 2026. We will keep you posted!