Miles That Make a Difference: Falmouth Road Race
On Sunday, August 16, Joshua Schumacher and Willa Tellekson-Flash took on the Falmouth Road Race in support of the Maranyundo Initiative. Alongside thousands of runners on the iconic Cape Cod course, Joshua and Willa ran seven miles with a purpose that reached far beyond the finish line: helping girls and educators in Rwanda.
The Falmouth Road Race has become a meaningful tradition for the Maranyundo community. While the race takes place along the Massachusetts coastline, every mile helps connect supporters here in the United States with students and educators thousands of miles away.
Every Mile Makes a Difference
Willa with her mom, Board Chair Lisa Tellekson and Joshua, with his mom, Board Secretary Fanny Schumacher.
Joshua and Willa ran this year's race to raise awareness and funds for Maranyundo's work supporting girls' education at the Maranyundo Girls School (MGS) and the continued development of the Maranyundo Training and Learning Center (MTLC).
At MGS, more than 66% of students receive full or partial scholarships, helping ensure that talented girls from economically vulnerable backgrounds have access to an academically rigorous, STEM-focused education.
The impact extends beyond the MGS campus. The MTLC is being developed as a hub for teacher training in digital literacy, STEM, makerspace learning, college counseling, and English. Through these programs, Maranyundo aims to equip educators with tools and skills that can reach thousands of students throughout Rwanda.
From Falmouth to Rwanda
Willa Tellekson-Flash and Joshua Schumacher at The Falmouth Road Race.
What makes the Falmouth Road Race so special is the community behind it. Every donation, mile, and word of encouragement contributes to a larger vision: a future where girls in Rwanda have the opportunity to learn, lead, and pursue their dreams.
For Joshua and Willa, race day was about more than crossing the finish line. It was an opportunity to stand alongside the girls of Maranyundo and help carry their stories and aspirations forward. Both Willa and Joshua have parents connected to the Board- Willa’s mother is Board Chair Lisa Tellekson and Joshua’s mother is Secretary Fanny Schumacher.
The energy and generosity of the Maranyundo community made this year's race a wonderful celebration of connection, perseverance, and the power of education.
A heartfelt thank you to Joshua and Willa for putting their time and energy behind Maranyundo's mission, and to everyone who supported their fundraising efforts.
Whether cheering from the sidelines, making a donation, or sharing Maranyundo's story, every supporter plays a role in creating opportunities for girls and educators in Rwanda.
Together, we are proving that a few miles can go a long way.
