Day 21 – 131.5 km for Clean Water and Gender Equality

On Day 21, I ran 6 km along the beautiful Cobequid Trail—but the most inspiring part of the day didn’t happen on my feet. It happened later that evening during a conversation with two incredible women: Katie Orr and Kellie McMullin from NSCC International. They both work closely with my mom in Tanzania. Kellie manages all study abroad programs at the Nova Scotia Community College, and Katie is the International Director. Talking with them helped me see just how deeply connected this project is to something much bigger than myself.

We spoke about how the Happiness Run for Clean Water and Gender Equality aligns with NSCC International’s mission: creating real, sustainable change through education, partnerships, and global citizenship. They reminded me that what we’re doing isn’t just a drop in the bucket—it’s part of a larger wave that helps communities thrive through clean water access, education, and the empowerment of women. That gave me so much hope.

One of the most powerful moments in our conversation was hearing how they view the project’s impact. I’ve been running every day, sharing stories, and collecting bottles—but they helped me see the bigger picture. The funds we raise won’t just install a Nanofilter Water Centre. They’ll also provide a job for a local woman, offering her a living wage and training to become an entrepreneur. She’ll be able to support her family, earn respect in her community, and educate others about health and sanitation. That ripple effect is enormous.

We also talked about the importance of partnerships. Real, lasting change never happens alone. NSCC International works with local organizations, community leaders, and people like my mom to ensure projects are community-led and culturally respectful. That’s exactly how the Happiness Project works too—bringing together people from different countries and backgrounds who believe in the same goals: clean water, gender equality, and opportunity for all.

Talking to Katie and Kellie reminded me that change doesn’t come from one big moment. It comes from a thousand small actions. Like running every day. Talking about water. Donating your bottles. Sharing a blog post. Together, we’re building something that truly matters.

And just like that… it’s Day 21. During a period of three weeks, I walked or ran at least 6 km every single day—for a total of 131.5 km! While the running may be done, the mission isn’t over yet.

I want to say a huge THANK YOU to every single person who supported this project—whether you donated, dropped off bottles, shared a post, or simply asked how it was going. Every little thing made a difference. I’m making one final push to reach my goal of installing a Nanofilter Water Centre in Tanzania and supporting a female entrepreneur. If you’ve been thinking of donating, now’s the time!

I’ll be accepting monetary and refundable donations until Sunday, June 15. On Monday, June 16, I’ll announce the total raised and draw for the Maasai Shuka—handmade by the women of the Happiness Project—from the names of everyone who donated. You’ll find the announcement on my blog and Facebook page.

I’ll also continue updating this blog as the water center is installed in a Tanzanian community, so you can meet the woman we’re empowering together and see how clean water can transform lives.

Thank you again for being part of this journey. I’m so proud of what we’ve built together.💛💧