Science-Based Health Education
A child died from a treatable asthma attack while the family prayed for a spiritual cure. We exist so that changes.
Empowering
Kids Through
Health
Nexus Uplift Foundation replaces dangerous health myths with science — giving every child a clear, accurate understanding of their body and their care.
“I used to hide that I felt sad a lot. I thought something was wrong with me spiritually. The workshop helped me understand depression is medical, not a curse. I told my mum and we went to the clinic.”
Isata, age 13
Workshop Participant
Our Mission
Replacing Myths With Medical Facts
In many communities, asthma is called a “spiritual attack”, depression is dismissed as weakness, and stomach ulcers are blamed on witchcraft. These beliefs delay treatment and cost lives — especially children's lives.
Nexus Uplift goes into communities with child-friendly health workshops, teaching kids and their caregivers the real causes, real symptoms, and real cures — building a generation that chooses clinics over superstitions.
Science-First
Every health explanation is rooted in medical evidence and age-appropriate science.
Evidence-basedPlain Language
No jargon. We translate complex conditions into words every child and parent can understand.
Child-friendlyCommunity-Led
We train local volunteers and teachers to sustain health conversations within communities.
Locally drivenMyth Busting
We directly address the specific superstitions tied to each condition in each community.
Culture-awareMyth vs. Fact
What We Are Up Against
These are the exact beliefs we encounter in communities — and the science that replaces them.
“Asthma is caused by a spiritual attack or bad night air. It cannot be treated — only prayed away.”
Asthma is inflammation of the airways triggered by dust, smoke, or cold air. It is fully manageable with an inhaler and trigger avoidance.
Health Topics
Science Over Superstition
Each condition we address carries myths in many communities. We replace fear with facts, and confusion with clarity.
Respiratory
Asthma
Asthma is not a curse — it is a manageable condition where airways become inflamed. We teach kids to recognise triggers, use inhalers correctly, and live active lives.
- 1 in 11 children has asthma
- Triggers include dust, smoke, and cold air
- Properly managed, kids can play sports freely
Wellness
Mental Health
Feeling sad, anxious, or overwhelmed is not weakness or a spiritual attack. We help children name their emotions and seek the right help confidently.
- 1 in 6 children has a mental health condition
- Talking helps — stigma does not
- Early support leads to better outcomes
Digestive
Peptic Ulcer
Stomach ulcers are caused by H. pylori bacteria or overuse of pain medicines — not bad luck. We demystify symptoms and treatment.
- Often caused by H. pylori bacteria
- Stress worsens but does not cause ulcers
- Antibiotics can cure most cases
Infectious
Malaria & Fever
Fever is the body fighting infection — not a punishment. We explain how malaria parasites spread and why mosquito nets and treatment matter.
- Malaria is caused by Plasmodium parasite
- Spread only via infected Anopheles mosquitoes
- Treated nets prevent 50%+ of cases
Nutritional
Anaemia
Constant tiredness and pale skin are not spiritual. Anaemia often comes from low iron. We show kids how food choices directly affect their energy and growth.
- Iron-rich foods include beans, meat, leafy greens
- Affects 40% of children globally
- Vitamin C helps the body absorb iron
Hygiene
Oral Health
Tooth decay is not caused by forbidden food. Bacteria feed on sugar and create acid. Brushing twice daily is medicine, not just hygiene.
- Brush for 2 minutes, twice daily
- Sugar feeds cavity-causing bacteria
- Fluoride toothpaste strengthens enamel
Want to understand how we turn this knowledge into workshops?
See how our workshops workYear 1 Goals
What We Are Building Toward
We are at the start. These are the targets we have set for our first year of operation.
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Kids to Reach
Children we aim to equip with science-based health education in Year 1
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Health Topics
Conditions we will demystify and address in every workshop
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Communities
Communities we are targeting across the region in our first year
2–3 hrs
Per Workshop
Each session runs two to three hours, with separate streams for children and caregivers
In Their Words
“My son has asthma and our neighbours kept saying it was a spiritual problem. After Nexus Uplift visited our school, my son can explain to them why it isn't. He even knows how to use his inhaler properly now.”
Amina Koroma
Parent, Freetown
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Get Involved
Help Us Reach Every Child
Whether you are a healthcare professional, a teacher, or a community member — there is a place for you at Nexus Uplift Foundation.