For advancing philanthropy through astute project management to uplift marginalized communities

Project Manager at Associação Ana Elisa | Luanda, Angola

Prosperidade Sunguete has become a pivotal force in philanthropic circles since joining Angola’s Ana Elisa Philanthropic Association as their project manager in 2021. The association is committed to promoting sustainable development and dignity across various social fronts. Its initiatives include support for children and widows, environmental preservation, health, and education. By fostering educational programs and addressing societal challenges, the association embodies a holistic approach to community advancement.

As a project manager at Ana Elisa, Prosperidade has dedicated herself to improving the lives of marginalized communities, particularly through her groundbreaking initiative, the "Technological Education for All" project, launched in 2023.

Prosperidade's journey began when she encountered the Maiombe community in Luanda. Moved by the challenges faced by its youth, she recognized a pressing need for technological education. The "Technological Education for All" project aims to bridge the digital divide by providing access to tech education for children, adolescents, and young adults from underprivileged backgrounds. Her vision is clear: Every child deserves the opportunity to learn and thrive in an increasingly digital world.

"Study changes people, and people change the world," Prosperidade often emphasizes, reflecting her belief in the transformative power of learning. Despite the hurdles of managing a large-scale project in a resource-limited environment, her leadership and innovative approach have drawn significant support from individuals and institutions alike. To date, the initiative has successfully educated over 150 children, providing them with not only academic knowledge but also essential meals through a community kitchen.

The project's impact was acknowledged when it was nominated for the Tigra Nova Garra 2023 Award in the Education category, celebrating outstanding youth initiatives. This recognition not only validated the efforts of the children but also enabled Prosperidade to procure additional educational materials. A particularly poignant moment for her was when she presented the trophy to the children in Maiombe, seeing and sharing in their joy.

While the "Technological Education for All" project is still evolving, with future goals including the purchase of computers and advanced programming courses, Prosperidade remains steadfast in her commitment to the children of Maiombe.

She’s also part of the “Albinism and Life” project, aimed at educating Angolans about albinism, because they believe the congenital pigmentation deficiency is contagious and affects intelligence and/or mental health.

“Unfortunately, albinos continue to face stigmas that are deeply ingrained in our society,” writes Prosperidade. “They are stigmatized, banished, and in extreme cases, murdered due to superstitious beliefs. It is ironic that, even in the 21st century, myths persist about the magical powers of albinos and their supposed immortality.”

The project offers Angolan albinos access to essential skin-protective resources such as umbrellas, hats, and sunscreen, as well as facilitating dermatological consultations and raising awareness about the condition.

Prosperidade also works as the Director of Recruitment at PMI Angola Chapter in Luanda. She actively participates in initiatives aimed at empowering young women in technology through her volunteer involvement with Women Techmakers Luanda. Her philosophy centers on the idea that service to others is paramount; she believes that volunteering with love and purpose is her life's mission.

As she says on her LinkedIn page of her work, “Project management is not just about meeting deadlines, but about creating lasting value and positive impact on the lives of the people involved as well.” Her dedication to philanthropy and education not only transforms individual lives but also contributes to the broader narrative of societal change in Angola.