This month, the Ishahayi Beach School Foundation is saying farewell to two long-serving board members, Teresa Sabatini and Marilyn LeBlanc. It’s never easy to say goodbye, but as expatriates we get some practice!

Teresa is currently our longest-serving board member. We’ll miss her creative energy! Teresa illustrated our Small Chop cookbook. She also led the creation of the hand-drawn notecards that we sell to raise money for our projects. While in Nigeria, Teresa has also dedicated time to the American Women’s Club and their participation in Small World.

Teresa brought her son Antonio to meet Lady Salami.

For two years in a row, Marilyn has organized our silent auction hosted by the Lagos Wine Club. This has become our signature fundraiser, and preparations take almost a year. Marilyn solicited many of the donations and arranged the presentation of our baskets and auction items. While in Nigeria, Marilyn has also served on the Welcoming Committee for her husband’s company.

Marilyn comforts a young student.

Ladies, you are dear to our hearts and will be sorely missed. We wish you two a smooth transition home.