Inspiring Change Through Literacy: The Journey of a Young Entrepreneur
For many, the idea of starting a nonprofit begins with a structured plan, but for Jube, it was an unexpected encounter on a flight that reignited a long-standing passion. Jube is a senior at Case Western Reserve studying biomedical engineering. A casual conversation on a plane with a fellow passenger, a lawyer, turned into a pivotal moment, reminding her of an initiative she had started back in 2020. That initiative has now transformed into a nonprofit dedicated to providing books and quality education to children across South Sudan.
Driven by love for books and a commitment to education, Jube is on a mission to expand literacy in South Sudan, the world's youngest country. Her nonprofit currently operates one library stocked with over 2,000 books, but the vision extends far beyond that. Partnered with Books for Africa, a U.S.-based nonprofit, the organization has secured a generous donation of 28,500 books. However, the challenge lies in logistics. The cost of shipping the books to South Sudan stands at $18,500. To bridge this gap, Jube has launched a crowdfunding campaign, hoping to secure the necessary funds to transport the books and expand the reach of their literacy initiative.
But this project isn’t just about books. Jube envisions a holistic approach to education, incorporating reading programs, essay competitions, peace-building initiatives, and workshops to engage students in meaningful learning experiences. The long-term goal? Establishing 20 to 50 libraries across South Sudan within the next five years and offering scholarships for high school and university students, particularly in East African countries with strong academic institutions like Rwanda and Kenya.
Much of the nonprofit’s early success can be attributed to the support and mentorship received from the Veale Institute for Entrepreneurship and LaunchNet. “They are the reason this initiative exists,” Jube shares. “From providing initial funding to guiding me through the legal process of incorporating a nonprofit, their support has been invaluable.” The organization’s federal 501(c)(3) status application, website development, and networking efforts all stemmed from this guidance, with dedicated individuals like Brittain, Tiffany, Mindy, and Megan playing critical roles in their journey.
While the passion and drive behind the project are evident, challenges remain. Shipping costs continue to be a significant hurdle, with limited affordable options for international logistics. Additionally, coordinating book donations and establishing efficient distribution networks within South Sudan requires ongoing effort and partnerships. Despite these challenges, the nonprofit is gaining traction, with growing community support and an increasing number of individuals eager to contribute. The website features a donate button for those looking to support the cause, and crowdfunding efforts remain a top priority in making this vision a reality.
For those looking to get involved, whether through donations, logistical support, or mentorship, Jube encourages outreach. “Taking the first step is the most important thing,” Jube advises aspiring entrepreneurs and nonprofit founders. “You don’t have to have everything figured out from the start. Passion and ambition together will guide you through the process.”
As this nonprofit continues to evolve, its founder’s journey is a testament to the power of persistence, community, and a deep-rooted belief in education’s transformative impact. With every book shipped and every library opened, her NGO is shaping a brighter future, one book at a time, one child for a lifetime.
Visit the BTS International website to learn more or donate!