Edgewater and We Yone: A Friendship Across Oceans
submitted by Daphne Amster,
Teacher at Edgewater Elementary
What began in 2019 as a simple exchange through the Peace Crane Project has blossomed into something truly special — a lasting international friendship between Edgewater’s Grade 4/5 classes and We Yone Primary School in Sierra Leone.
Over the years, this partnership has grown far beyond paper cranes. It has endured a global pandemic, several postal strikes, and even unreliable Wi-Fi connections, proving that friendship can thrive across any distance.
Connecting Through Creativity
Shared activities have included simultaneous cardboard box challenges and creative projects that link our two classrooms. One especially meaningful initiative began when Edgewater students learned about women in Sierra Leone sewing reusable pads so girls could stay in school. Inspired by their efforts, Edgewater girls formed a club to make and sell pad pouches — both online and at the Craft Fair — raising awareness about menstrual health and supporting the women’s important work.
Then, during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, We Yone students sent a surprise package that lifted everyone’s spirits: custom-made face masks featuring both schools’ logos. It was a powerful reminder that, even when the world felt isolated, we were in this together.
Reading for a Cause
To help provide quality education and promote a love of literacy, Edgewater hosted its first Readathon in 2019. Now an annual tradition held each November (with the exception of the “Covid blip”), the event has raised approximately $10,000 over the past six years. These funds help support teacher salaries, classroom supplies, and even Christmas celebrations at We Yone Primary School.
This year’s Readathon runs from November 10th to 24th. If you would like to contribute and help make a difference, you can contact Daphne at damster@lbpearson.ca for more information or to make a donation. Alternatively, donations can be sent directly to the We Yone Children’s Primary School in Sierra Leone.
Together, Edgewater and We Yone Primary School continue to prove that friendship, compassion, and learning truly have no borders.
