Thirteen‑year‑old Sisilia, from remote Tanzania, spent much of her childhood walking long distances to collect water each day, time that kept her from school and placed her dreams further out of reach.  

Today, thanks to Project Compassion and the support of the Diocese of Mbulu Development Department, clean and safe water is now close to her home and school, transforming daily life for Sisilia and her community. 

Life has never been easy for Sisilia. Her father passed away when she was just one, leaving her mother to raise five children on her own. The family lives in a small, overcrowded home with poor ventilation and no toilet.  

Like nearly 40 percent of people in Tanzania who lack access to basic drinking water services, Sisilia once fetched water three times a day, a 30‑minute walk each way to a dirty canal. The untreated water often left her too sick to attend school, and the long journeys regularly made her late for classes. 

“I get very tired. Carrying heavy water containers every day after walking long distances is not easy. I was also getting piercing back pains,” said Sisilia. 

With the support of Project Compassion, Sisilia’s school joined the A+ Successor Project, which improved her access to clean water by installing taps on school grounds. These taps have been life‑changing as students can drink safely, wash their hands, and grow vegetables for school lunches. 

Sisilia also joined the School Water, Hygiene and Sanitation Club, where she has learnt vital hygiene skills and becoming a confident young leader. Using songs, games, and demonstrations, she now teaches others in her community about handwashing and sanitation. 

A new domestic water point in her village means Sisilia now walks only two minutes to fetch water, giving her precious time back to study and pursue her dream of becoming a pilot. 

“When I grow up, I would like to be a pilot. I'd like to fly to different countries and pass through the sky,” she said. 

Find out more about Sisilia and watch her story here: Sisilia’s Story 

Those wanting to support Project Compassion, download resources or fundraise can visit https://www.caritas.org.au/project-compassion   

To donate, look for the Project Compassion donation boxes, visit the website, or call 1800 024 413 toll free.  

Media contact: Tara Harvey 0484 002 021 tara.harvey@caritas.org.au or caritasmedia@caritas.org.au