Pyarali and Jena were born in Gujarat, India. As a young married couple, they struggled to make a living. Hoping to build a better life for themselves and on the guidance received, they immigrated to Africa, settling in Tanzania.

There in Tanzania, they began by operating a general merchandising retail business. Eventually, the business was expanded to include a trucking service. This transport business helped make goods available to people in small villages throughout southern Tanzania, who otherwise would not have had access to the basic necessities.

They had 11 children. When Pyarali would go on merchant safaris, Jena would handle the shop in the village and manage the storefront business. Pyarali’s mother who lived with them had vision and hearing issues and although needing assistance herself, she would give Jena a helping hand with looking after the children and taking care of things around the house, as much as she was able.

In the village where they lived, there were no hotels. Pyarali and Jena always opened their home to accommodate out-of-town guests making sure that they felt welcomed, comfortable, and well-fed.

Not only were travelers welcomed, Pyarali and Jena made sure that their local village people also understood that there was always room for them at their table. Pyarali and Jena were always available to lend a helping hand or an ear to listen.

The Pyarali Nagji family children all learned early on that sharing a portion of what you have, whether it be tangible goods, moral, or literal physical support, can be a blessing to others. They were taught that the whole of humanity is from one soul and it was instilled in them that the respect and support for our fellow human beings is paramount.

Today, they will match to double your gift in their parents’ memory. Your combined contributions can help AKF continue working to improve the quality of life of some of the poorest communities in the world.