On December 25, 2024, the world lost an extraordinary humanitarian and educator, Dora Moono Nyambe, at just 32 years old. Dora's life was a shining example of how one individual’s determination and compassion can transform countless lives. Through her tireless dedication to children in rural Zambia, she addressed systemic challenges with courage and grace, founding Footprints of Hope to create lasting change.
Her work went beyond building schools—she built opportunities, hope, and brighter futures for the most vulnerable. Dora’s story has profoundly inspired the staff and volunteers at Pickens County Habitat for Humanity, reminding us all that one person’s vision and commitment can leave an impact that will last forever.
For those who may not yet know Dora's story, we felt it was important to share it with you in this newsletter. Her legacy is one that continues to inspire, and we hope her journey touches your heart as it has ours.
A Life of Purpose
Born on June 23, 1992, Dora grew up in Chibombo, Lusaka, the daughter of a South African mother and a Zambian father. Her early exposure to the realities of poverty and foreign aid inefficiencies shaped her belief that meaningful change must come from within communities.
After training as a teacher, Dora initially planned to work in China. However, a visit to the village of Mapapa in 2019 altered the course of her life. Confronted by the high number of children out of school and the prevalence of early marriages, she made the extraordinary decision to relocate to Mapapa with her five adopted children.
Living in a mud hut and facing initial resistance from locals, Dora began her work amid significant challenges. Her perseverance earned the trust of the community and allowed her vision to take root.
Building Footprints of Hope
Dora founded Footprints of Hope to create educational opportunities for children in Mapapa. By 2023, her school was serving 350 students, 150 of whom lived in boarding facilities she helped build. The school was more than a place of learning—it was a refuge. Dora advocated fiercely for her students, intervening to prevent child marriages and ensuring the safety of children facing abuse.
Her efforts extended far beyond education. She worked to provide clean water, better nutrition, and safe housing for children who had nowhere else to turn. The trust she built within the community was a testament to her unwavering commitment and ability to create lasting change.
A Home for Many
Dora’s life was deeply intertwined with the lives of the children she served. She adopted 13 children and acted as a foster parent to the 150 boarding students at her school, creating a family defined by love, respect, and shared resilience. Her role as a caregiver went beyond the classroom, as she worked to ensure her children had the tools and support they needed to thrive.
Reaching a Global Audience
In May 2020, Dora began sharing her work on TikTok, giving the world a glimpse into her daily life and the challenges facing her community. Her honesty and authenticity resonated with millions. By 2023, she had 4 million followers and had raised nearly $500,000 to support her school and its programs. Her most notable campaign funded boreholes, providing clean water to her village and demonstrating the power of grassroots advocacy.
A Lasting Legacy
Dora Moono Nyambe leaves behind a legacy of profound impact. She challenged societal norms, confronted systemic injustice, and gave children the opportunity to dream of a brighter future. Her work will continue through Footprints of Hope, ensuring that the values she championed—education, safety, and dignity—live on.
Her passing is an immense loss, but her vision serves as a reminder of what can be achieved when determination is matched with compassion. Dora's story is one of extraordinary service, proving that one individual’s efforts can ripple out to transform a community and inspire the world.
To honor Dora’s memory, let us continue the work she began. Her legacy is not only a testament to her character but also a call to action for those who believe in the power of education, justice, and hope.
