I was born and raised in a small village in Togo where life was simple but opportunities were scarce. Growing up, I saw children walking miles to attend school with no books, desks, or trained teachers. I was one of those children.We ate one small meal daily. There is no electricity and no medical facility. I saw friends leave school early—not because they lacked talent, but because they lacked resources.

These images stayed with me. Even when I moved to the U.S., the memories of my village never left my heart. I promised myself that one day, I would return—not just to visit, but to make a difference. In 2025, my wife and I took the first step toward that promise by founding Jedidiah Village Foundation.