Four young Virgin Islanders are expected to spend part of their summer performing volunteer service in Africa, says the founder of a nonprofit group focused on global service and youth development. A 10-day visit is planned to take the group through Kenya, Tanzania and Zanzibar.
I Am Hope Foundation President Teshanne Phillip said two high school and two college students will help the foundation team distribute shoes and clothing to communities in need. They will also have a chance to join foundation team members in delivering food items for a village to prepare a community feast.
“This mission’s trip provides an opportunity not only for service but also for educational growth and cultural immersion,” Phillip said.
Ivanna Eudora Kean High School students Chrislord Bernard and Ava Daniel, along with University of the Virgin Islands student Shaynee Cherival and Johnson and Wales University student Kyra David, are scheduled to start their adventure July 21. Together, they mark the first time student volunteers have joined the foundation’s Africa outreach since 2018.
Cherival graduated from Charlotte Amalie High School in 2024; David — a former Devil Ray — also graduated last year.
But perhaps the highlight of the trip will come when students join in ongoing support projects at the KWA Mwatu Primary School in Kenya. “Year over year we focus on a special project at that school,” Phillips said.
Details appearing on the foundation’s website describe efforts led by Phillip at the Kenyan school since 2017: “As of January 2025, we have built a new kitchen structure, implemented a nutrition program, provided access to clean drinking water, created a library and installed cement flooring in classrooms at the school, (and) repaired the roofs of two classrooms,” according to the website.
St. Thomas-St. John District Superintendent Stephan Jurgen and Kean High Principal Sally Petty are credited for supporting the trip for Bernard and Daniel. Trip sponsors continue to solicit donations to cover expenses.
For further information, contact Phillip at iamhopefoundation@outlook.com.
