For her extraordinary work in supporting primary education, Abra Tenu of Lomé, Togo was named a 2011 JCI Ten Outstanding Young Persons of the World (JCI TOYP) recipient in the category of academic leadership and/or accomplishment. At the young age of 14, Abra Tenu realized many children in her town were unable to continue receiving education due to lack of funding and support from their families. She decided to find a solution for this problem and provide free education for these children from her home. Tenu founded the St. Therese de l’Enfant Jesus association to raise funding for school supplies and continue to support the children’s education. With the help of community partners, her association constructed a small school and community center, allowing her to take on more students, who now have access to a library, a computer room and a safe place for games and social activities. She also worked with a Village Development Committee to start a project improving the water and sanitation conditions in her community. Tenu’s compassion and concern for the local children make her a role model to youth everywhere. She dedicates her time and efforts to helping others succeed through education because she understands its importance for every child’s future. JCI TOYP JCI (Junior Chamber International) honors ten outstanding young people under the age of 40 each year. These individuals exemplify the spirit of the JCI Mission and provide extraordinary service to their communities. Whether through service, innovation, determination or revolutionary thinking, these young active citizens create positive impacts in their communities. These ten young active citizens will be honored at the 2011 JCI TOYP Ceremony and reception Wednesday, November 2 at the JCI World Congress in Brussels, Belgium. About JCI: JCI is a worldwide membership-based nonprofit organization of young active citizens ages 18 to 40 who are dedicated to creating positive change in their communities. Through projects in more than 5,000 communities across more than 100 countries, members seek targeted solutions to local problems, creating a global impact. Visit www.jci.cc to learn more. Contact: Krissy Durant, Programs Manager, JCI (Junior Chamber International) programs@jci.cc
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