This adventure of a lifetime is coming in January 2011; an opportunity to change your world, and change your life.

For everything you need to know about joining the Kilimanjaro climb, click here.

Dear  Friends:

 I have lived in Africa most of my adult life.   Sometimes Africa drives me crazy; sometimes I am filled with unrestrained hope.  But this I believe: it is women of integrity and leadership that will change this continent forever.  I am committed to helping these women with all of my heart. 

Like me, you’ve heard the litany of Africa’s problems:  war, disease, HIV/AIDS, poverty, hunger and corruption.  I believe these are symptoms – not the problem.  The key issue is the need for great leadership of integrity.  And I have seen that women are the change agents and grass roots leaders who are making the difference.  The future of Africa is in the hands of women.  UN studies and World Health Organization research, all have shown overwhelming evidence that if you want to affect change in Africa at the core of its problems, you must work with women.

This year I turned 60 and I am beginning to think about things like my life’s legacy.  What can I do to leave a small footprint in this continent that has welcomed me for so much of my life?  I would like to leave behind a permanent center where women can meet, share ideas and challenges, look for solutions and network with women  from all over the globe who want to work through the same challenges. 

So, I am asking you to help me raise money to build the Leah Ngini *Community and Women’s Center at Africa International University (formerly NEGST) in Nairobi, Kenya.  AIU/NEGST has produced some of the most effective women leaders I have the privilege of knowing in Africa.  The school is growing and needs a place for women to come together, to work and  strategize, to plan for their own future, the future of their children and the continent.  There is an urgent need for a “heart” -- a gateway building for our expanding campus. 

On January 12, 2011, I will be putting on my boots, lacing them up and heading to the top of Mt Kilimanjaro, the world’s highest free standing mountain.  For nine days, I will be hiking along with a group of North American women. I am asking you to join this great cause by supporting my climb.  My personal goal is to raise  $50,000 for the Center, and I am hoping that you will make a pledge.  You can donate by going to www.wowsafaris.org and following the  “Donate for Kili ” link.  Please indicate somewhere that you are sponsoring Lois Shaw’s climb.  If 20 climbers each raise $50,000, we can make our goal of $1 million.

Thank you for your thoughtful consideration. You and I can make a lasting difference in the lives of women African leaders.

Or, grab your boots and join me.  I have never done anything like this before, but Tusker Trails, our climbing company, promises we’ll all make it.   (www.tusker.com)  

For the love of Africa,