Laura Aquabikes for A2S

Laura Knight / #GiveAccess

Everyone deserves the opportunity to try something new. As I embark on this new adventure, help me provide opportunities for kids in Nigeria who are experiencing material poverty. Together we can support 20 kids at the A2S After School Academy!

  • $3,051

    Raised

  • $2,500

    Goal

  • 23

    Supporters

Recent Transactions

About Laura Aquabikes for A2S

Pictured: During my last trip to Nigeria this was the class I connected to the most. (Of course I spent my time hanging out with middle schoolers... :)) Marvellous, the girl on the top left is one of the first A2S kids I posted about on A2S's social media while I was an intern in 2017. I've followed her story ever since! 

Now my story: Often through my work at A2S, as we think through providing the right tools for our kids to develop as awesome human beings, I think about my own life and what has brought me to this point. Along my journey to a career in a field I deeply love, I've received incredible support at home, through school communities, and through friendships. I know that anywhere I go, I have had ample resources and a community around me encouraging my growth at every step. 

The children and youth in Nigeria that A2S serves deserve the same. Without A2S's presence, these kids do not have the same opportunities that I grew up with- all because of the circumstances they happened to be born into. This inequity of opportunity that exists in so many places in this world has bothered me from a very young age- I'm sure some of you can remember many a birthday where I raised funds for a variety of causes and people that I care about. 

The funds raised through this campaign will sponsor a classroom at the A2S Youth Center in Nigeria and ensure that 20 kids have the tools and resources they need to learn in a positive and rich environment. My dream for these kids is that with a community that encourages them to explore new things and discover what they love, they will chase after their dreams without limitations. In doing so, our hope at A2S is that each child finds a dignified path to success and is able to break the cycle of poverty for themselves and for their families.

So what's an Aquabike you might ask? Think "Triathlon" without the running part... 

Along my journey, some of you also know that I've struggled with my back. I've injured, re-injured, and not fully understood what has been going on with my lower spine for 11 years now (but who's counting??). As I've learned more, one doctor suggested I give up running. Since then, I discovered she was totally right, I feel much better when I don't run. Unfortunately, that also took away the things I used to do for fun. I have struggled to find how to exercise in a way my body can handle. I'm trying this as something new that's exciting and brings me back to a level of physical activity I enjoy. As I try this new thing, help me provide the opportunity for 20 kids to try new things as well. 

Anything you're willing to give will help! Thanks in advance for your support :)