Gemma Sisia

My Hero – Gemma Sisia

Team Tanzania 24-25 at TSOSJAngie StrobelGemma Sisia is my hero because she embodies the power of compassion, determination, and belief in the potential of every child. As the founder of the School of St Jude in Arusha, Tanzania, she dedicated her life to breaking the cycle of poverty through education. What makes her story truly inspiring is not just the school she built, but the love and resilience she poured into making it a reality.

Born in Australia, Gemma always believed that education should be a right, not a privilege. After visiting Africa, she saw firsthand how many bright, young children were denied schooling because of poverty. In 2002, with only a small donation from family and friends and a huge dream, she opened the doors of the School of St Jude. It started with just three students. Today, it provides free, high-quality education to over 1,800 students and supports hundreds more in higher education.

The school isn’t just a place to learn—it’s a place of hope. It gives children from disadvantaged backgrounds the tools to change their futures and become leaders in their communities. Gemma didn’t let financial obstacles or unfamiliar surroundings stop her. Instead, she partnered with local people, worked tirelessly to raise funds, and showed what one person can do with enough heart and grit.

My ten-day trip with Culver Academies' Leadership Committee for Africa, (LCA) to St Jude's was enough to see just how much of an impact Gemma’s actions have been on the children and community alike. I've had the chance to speak to her a few times, and she radiates kindness and compassion in all she says and does.

Growing up in Nigeria and Ghana, my mother and father would constantly remind me that no matter how far I roamed and how long I was gone, my aim in life should always be returning to my home continent in hopes of making the world a better place for people who wouldn’t get the opportunities that I do. Witnessing Gemma’s example has made this dream even more tangible for me. It showed me that giving back isn’t just an idea — it is a commitment, a responsibility, and a privilege. Watching what she has built reminds me that real change begins with a decision to act, even when the odds seem overwhelming. It reminds me that I, too, have the power to honor my roots and create lasting impact, just as she has.

Angie StrobelGemma,(fourth from the left) with the Team Tanzania adult leadersGemma is my hero because she proves that one person can spark a movement. She turned a simple dream into a life-changing mission for thousands. Her story motivates me to use whatever resources and talents I have to help others and make the world a better place.