While many high school seniors focus on prom and college applications, Bronx native Max Owobu dedicates his time to supporting children’s education in Ghana through his nonprofit, the Yenko Foundation, which helps cover tuition, meals, and school supplies.
- Max began the nonprofit with money saved from his allowance.
- Yenko Foundation covers tuition, uniforms, meals, and transportation.
- $1,000 supports a child’s education for a full year.
What happened
Max Owobu, an 18-year-old high school senior from the Bronx, has simultaneously navigated the challenges of his final year of school and managed an international nonprofit he founded called the Yenko Foundation. Inspired by his experiences during summer visits to Ghana where he witnessed children working instead of learning, Max took initiative to provide educational opportunities for kids in need.
The foundation focuses on sponsoring children in Ghana’s primary education system, covering vital costs such as tuition, uniforms, meals, transportation, and supplies. Starting modestly with funding from his weekly allowance, Max’s NGO has now helped ten children attend school, ensuring they can focus on learning rather than financial hardship.
Why it feels good
Max’s efforts highlight the impact young people can make when they choose to act on their compassion and take responsibility for change. By addressing educational barriers in Ghana, he is opening doors for children who might otherwise have to work to support their families, thus limiting their future opportunities.
The joy and enthusiasm Max observed in children at Calvary Methodist School—where many of the sponsored students attend—reflects the tangible benefits of his foundation’s work. His mission gives hope to children and their families, creating a pathway toward a better future through education.
What to enjoy or watch next
Max plans to expand the foundation’s reach beyond primary education sponsorship to include support for hospitals and orphanages in Ghana. His ambition signals a growing movement of youth-led initiatives aimed at creating long-lasting social impact internationally.
Readers inspired by Max’s story can follow the growth of the Yenko Foundation and consider ways to support similar causes that empower children through education. Celebrating young changemakers like Max can motivate others to create positive change in their own communities and across the globe.