“Books, Bricks & Hope: A School Worth Fighting For”

Books, Bricks & Hope: A School Worth Fighting For

By Ali Jamoos | UWC-USA Graduate | University of Florida | Current Volunteer at Maya Universe Academy

Goal: $5,000

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A School Built on Love—and Community

As a UWC-USA graduate and current member of the University of Florida community, I’ve always believed that education should be a force for equity, understanding, and lasting change.

In early January of 2025, I had the opportunity to start teaching English at Maya Universe Academy in rural Nepal—a school offering completely free education to children who otherwise might never see a classroom. What I experienced here changed my life.

At Maya, parents don't pay tuition. Instead, they volunteer two days a month—cooking, farming, building—to support the school. That simple model sustains an entire educational ecosystem and creates a school deeply rooted in community, resilience, and hope.

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Why I’m Asking for Your Support

While Maya’s model is powerful, the school runs on limited resources. I taught brilliant kids using tattered books in classrooms that desperately need repair. Yet the spirit of the place—the joy, the learning, the laughter—was undeniable.

We’re raising $5,000 to provide:

Books & classroom materials

Infrastructure repairs & upgrades

‍ Training and support for local teachers

Nutritious meals for students

Every dollar makes a real impact in rural Nepal.

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To My UWC and UF Communities

To UWC Alumni & Friends:

We’ve stood in assemblies and pledged to "make education a force to unite people, nations and cultures for peace and a sustainable future." Maya lives this every day—through grassroots education and service to others.

To My UF Colleagues & Students:

Whether you're in education, agriculture, international studies, or public health—Maya's mission aligns with ours. This is a chance to support global development in action and connect with a project where your skills and interests matter.

Join me in backing a school that reflects the best of who we are and what we believe.

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Want to Get More Involved?



✈️ Volunteer in Nepal: Click here to volunteer

Sponsor a Student: Click here to Sponsor a child

Read Reviews & Stories: Click here to learn more

From My Journey at Maya:

Thank You

In Nepali, “Maya” means love—and that’s what this campaign is all about.

If you can, please donate, share, or simply help spread the word. Together, we can give these students the tools they need to thrive.

Let’s build something that lasts.

Let’s build it with love.

—

Ali Jamoos

UWC-USA Alum | University of Florida

Current Volunteer, Maya Universe Academy