By Rubie Ruth, Head of Operations at Ubuntu Life
We were delighted to welcome a team from Syracuse University’s Martin J. Whitman School of Management to our campus on May 16th. Their visit was a wonderful opportunity for us to showcase the heart of our mission — and all the good happening here at the Ubuntu Life Foundation.
For the past three years, we've had the privilege of partnering with Syracuse University, under the leadership of Professor Elizabeth Wimer. Each year, she brings a group of students to visit our campus — to spend time with our children, learn about our impact, and witness where our beautiful, handmade products are created.
This collaboration goes far beyond just a visit. These students become part of our story. They return home as ambassadors of Ubuntu, spreading awareness, supporting our growth, and helping amplify our message of love, inclusion, and community.
One standout moment from this year’s trip came from Olivia Roccia, a sophomore at Syracuse, who went above and beyond. Before even setting foot on campus, Olivia rallied her friends and family to fulfill the majority of the items on our kids' wish list — a beautiful act of generosity and heart.
In Olivia's words:
“Visiting the Ubuntu Life Foundation was an unforgettable experience. My favorite memory was meeting the children and playing with them in the garden. It has been such a rewarding experience to partner with a group that has such a strong foundation and is making lasting impacts on their community. The love and message behind the foundation is truly inspiring and it is such an honor to be partners with such incredible people!”
We are incredibly grateful to Syracuse University, to Professor Wimer, and to all the students who continue to show up with open hearts and open minds. Your presence, your partnership, and your belief in our work means the world to us.
We can't wait to host more students in the years ahead — and continue growing this beautiful connection.
