Mago Hasfa: Transforming lives through literacy and education

Growing up in a community with limited relatable books, I understand firsthand the transformative power of literacy. My passion for literacy and entrepreneurship comes from my belief that empowering youth is key to building thriving communities.

Mago Hasfa Founder and Literary Specialist of Read To Learn Foundation

Mago Hasfa - Founder and Literary Specialist of Read To Learn Foundation

2024 WE Empower UN SDG Challenge Finalist, Sub-Saharan Africa Region

Mago Hasfa’s personal mission is deeply rooted in the belief that every child, regardless of background or circumstance, should have access to quality education and the tools needed to reach their full potential. This mission led to her founding the Read to Learn Foundation, where she holds the Literary Specialist position and leverages storytelling as a powerful tool for promoting inclusivity and diversity through the authorship of children’s storybooks.

Innovative Programs and Initiatives

The Read to Learn Foundation’s innovative AI-powered multilingual reading app aims to enhance literacy skills and foster a love for reading across diverse communities, particularly in remote or underserved areas. Additionally, the foundation has established solar-powered production hubs dedicated to crafting educational toys, building library structures, and creating play-based materials. These initiatives support educational development and contribute to environmental sustainability.

The foundation’s vision is to create a world where every child has access to a strong educational foundation through empowering diverse communities by providing the necessary tools, skills, and resources for early literacy development programs.

Commitment to United Nations Sustainable Development Goals

The Read to Learn Foundation supports the Sustainable Development Goals 2030 Agenda through programs focusing on SDG 4 (Quality Education) and SDG 1 (Poverty Alleviation). The foundation implements programs that enhance learning outcomes, address poverty, and promote gender equality, ensuring inclusive and equitable education for all. 

Hasfa’s leadership and the foundation’s initiatives have created safe and inclusive spaces for women and girls to learn, grow, and connect (SDG 5: Gender Equality). The foundation prioritizes women’s safety, implements robust anti-harassment and anti-discrimination policies, and promotes gender equality through various programs and partnerships. Through the Book Drive Store, the foundation promotes children’s storybooks with 80% female representation, inspiring young girls to see themselves as leaders.

In addition to literacy and education, the foundation employs sustainable solutions within its operations. Its solar-powered production hubs reduce carbon footprints and promote renewable energy usage, serving as models of sustainable practices for the communities it engages with.

Mago Hasfa’s entrepreneurial journey is a testament to her commitment to literacy, education, and empowerment. Through the Read to Learn Foundation, she continues to transform lives and build a brighter future for children and communities across Africa.'

My personal mission is deeply rooted in creating a world where every child, regardless of background or circumstance, has access to quality education and the tools to reach their full potential.

Mago Hasfa

By Grace Reiter, WE Empower Intern