In an environment marked by poverty, Michael and Marie rediscovered, in their words, their fundamental human values. Touched by the sincere welcome of the locals and by the often difficult living conditions, they felt a deep need to give back a little of what they had received.
MICHAEL AND MARIE DUFRENOY: A HEARTFELT CONNECTION TO ZANZIBAR THAT BECOMES AN ACT OF SOLIDARITY
Deeply moved by the conditions in which the children of Zanzibar try to learn each day, Michael and Marie Dufrenoy decided not to remain mere spectators. After visiting several local schools, they were struck by the glaring lack of furniture: classrooms where children sat on the floor, without desks, sometimes without blackboards or storage. Aware that the learning environment plays an essential role in development and academic success, they made the strong choice to intervene immediately. On site, they used their own resources to make a donation of several thousand euros, directly invested in purchasing new school furniture from local artisans and merchants. Thanks to their commitment, several classrooms were completely re-equipped, bringing these learning spaces back to life and sparking renewed motivation among the children.
Their gesture not only improved material comfort; it also sent a powerful message of solidarity, respect, and hope. By investing directly on site, Michael and Marie chose tangible, human, and sustainable aid.
Michael tells us: “Visiting these schools was a real shock: seeing children so motivated to learn in such precarious conditions deeply moved me. We couldn’t leave without taking action. We immediately knew we had to do something concrete, here, on the ground. This isn’t just a donation, it’s a thank you for everything this island and its people have given us on a human level.”
