The weight of her world was squarely on her shoulders as she looked for clean water all day, every day. But because of a well Water is Basic drilled near her home in 2010, everything changed.

When Mary was just 12 years old, soldiers attacked her village. In the absolute chaos, she grabbed the nearest baby she could reach and ran into the bush. She ran until her body physically gave out. The baby died in her arms, and to survive, a 12-year-old Mary had to lie in the dirt and play dead while the soldiers moved past her.

Thirty-five women-led repair teams like Maria’s are returning clean water to 85,000 families this year—repairing wells in days, instead of years. They’re building businesses, leading communities, and changing the story of an entire nation. Girls are back in school. Women are seen not just as caretakers, but as change makers. And we’re not slowing down.

Women who once carried empty jerry cans are now carrying tools.

“Why would we build anything—if our people are dying of dirty water?”

Mothers are ferocious warriors for their families. Today, those same mothers run businesses repairing boreholes, earning enough to feed their families, pay school fees, and even lend a hand to others. These women are changing their world and our understanding of what our privilege can do to help others thrive.

The impact of the South Sudan national basketball team extends beyond the court. Their success has inspired a new generation of athletes in South Sudan, encouraging young boys and girls to pursue their dreams. The team’s achievements have brought a sense of pride and unity to a nation often marred by conflict and adversity.

In South Sudan, schools have shuttered their doors for a brief respite amidst the scorching heat that would otherwise consume their precious time. But this isn't the typical Spring Break getaway to Florida's beaches or Colorado's snowy slopes. No, it's a different kind of break – a Heat Break.

This story of Water is Basic is way bigger than clean water. It’s economic opportunity, generational transformation, women's empowerment, and hope for a nation.