What drives Education Matters?

Our Mission

To provide high-achieving, low-income students with transformational education and access to global opportunities that will promote positive impact in Africa.

Our Vision

Empowered youth in Zimbabwe leading lives of purpose and positive impact for themselves, their families, and communities across Africa.

Impact

Our Achievements Speak Volumes About Us

Join us in making a difference. Our community impact is measurable and profound.

$30M+

Awarded in Scholarship Funds to USAP Community School Students

8,600+

Hours contributed by 9 Capstone Fellows in 6 months of community impact in 2025

850+

Students Enrolled in the USAP Program Since 2000

200+

Zimbabwe Career Connect (ZCC) Internships Awarded Since 2016

185+

Scholars at USAP Community School Since 2020

54%

Of Education Matters/USAPCS Employees are USAP/ZCC Alum

Honors & Awards

Our organization has been recognized for its outstanding contributions to education, receiving numerous accolades for its innovative approaches and impactful programs.

PIEoneer Award

In September 2025, USAP Community School was named the 2025 Secondary School International Innovation School Award by The Pie News in an award ceremony in London. Dubbed “the most prestigious awards in the global education industry”, the PIE-oneer awards recognize trailblazers and innovators who are shaping the future of education on a global scale.

World’s Best School Award

In June 2025, USAP Community School became one of 10 finalists for the World Best Schools Prize in the Innovation category.  Competing against amazing schools globally, USAPCS was highlighted for its capstone program linking students to meaningful community engagement and change.

Amherst College Honorary Degree

Our founder and Director, Rebecca Zeigler Mano, received a Doctor of Humane Letters degree from Amherst College at their commencement ceremony in May 2025.  The degree recognized “her career in expanding educational opportunity by creating pathways that connect high-achieving, low-income African students to higher education institutions worldwide.”
Explore

Our Initiatives

Explore how Education Matters supports youth in Zimbabwe through community, education, and opportunity.

Follow Our Mission

USAP at 25

Celebrating 25 Years of Transformative Education

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Leadership

Meet our team

Welcome to our team page! Stay tuned to learn more about each member's unique contributions and expertise!

Rebecca speaking into a microphone
Programs

Partnerships

Learn about our programs partners.

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News

Updates & Insights

Keep up with the latest news, press and insights from Education Matters.

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Support

Contact Us

Do you have questions about our programs, our team or community?

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Join Us in Making a Difference

Your support can transform lives. Donate to Education Matters via Global Giving and help us provide quality education to high-potential students in underserved communities.

The school photographed from above by a drone