Our Story: A Legacy of Compassion in Eswatini
The Seed of an Idea
The story of MEDEA e.V. is rooted in a simple yet profound act of compassion. Founded in 2002 by the late Gertrude Christa Langensiepen, our organization was born out of a deep-seated conviction that every child, regardless of their circumstances, deserves the opportunity to thrive. Gertrude, a devoted servant to the people of Eswatini, recognized the immense vulnerability faced by children impacted by the HIV/AIDS crisis, which has left many orphaned and exposed to the hardships of poverty.
Her vision was clear: to create an organization dedicated to providing essential medical and educational relief. It was a mission built on the principle of “helping others to help themselves," empowering communities and families to create a nurturing environment where children could be educated, nourished, and protected.
A Journey of Growth and Impact
For over two decades, MEDEA e.V. has been a beacon of hope, extending its support to over 232 communities across Eswatini. We have strategically focused our efforts on regions with the most urgent needs, implementing truly transformative projects. Our work has been made possible through the unwavering support of our dedicated members, the German Government, and a network of generous individual donors and German entities.
This collaborative spirit has allowed us to tackle significant challenges, from providing school supplies and scholarships to undertaking large-scale projects like the construction of two schools and a preschool. We are not just building structures; we are building futures.
A New Chapter: Honouring Our Past, Embracing Our Future
Following the passing of our beloved founder in 2023, MEDEA e.V. entered a period of reflection and consolidation. With the generous mentorship of MEDEA e.V. Board and the expertise of independent consultants, we embarked on our first-ever comprehensive strategic planning exercise. This process allowed us to re-evaluate our core identity, reflect on our past achievements, and set ambitious targets for the future.
We are now in a period of transition, strengthening our governance and organizational capacity to ensure a sustainable future. Our Eswatini-based team is poised to take on a greater leadership role, working hand-in-hand with our German counterparts to expand our impact and reach. Our core values of compassion, collaboration, and a relentless dedication to the dignity of every child guide this new chapter.
Our Commitment
Moving forward, MEDEA e.V. remains steadfast in its commitment to the most vulnerable children of Eswatini. We are resolute in our mission to provide tailored support through education, well-being programs, and family strengthening initiatives. By enhancing our organizational capacity and fostering new collaborations, we will continue to nurture an environment where children can realize their innate potential and build a brighter future for themselves and their communities.
We extend our deepest gratitude to our dedicated team, our generous contributors, and the MEDEA e.V. Board for their unwavering support. Together, we are writing a new chapter in a story that began with one person’s vision—a story of enduring hope and unwavering humanity.
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- Our Values:
❖ Tolerance
❖ Collaboration for a common goal
❖ Community partnership
❖ Lifelong love for meaning
❖ Equality and non-discrimination
❖ Environmentally responsible
❖ The Dignity of the Child