Musical Inspiration
Finally, we were all treated to a fantastic performance by Senegalese singer and movie star Youssou N'Dour. You may have seen him in the film Amazing Grace. I'd last seen Youssou a few weeks ago at the G-8 Summit in Germany, and I invited him to join me at the school. Education for Senegal is something Youssou cares about very deeply: In addition to being a talented musician, Youssou is also a very compassionate activist. Through his two foundations, he's working to advance girls' education in Africa, and to address the health crises of malaria and HIV/AIDS.
At Grand Medine, Youssou brought the quiet courtyard to life with song: The fourth- and fifth-grade students stood, swayed their hips, clapped their hands, and joined in with Youssou's joyful lyrics. After a minute, their teachers -- who were dressed in turquoise-and-white silk traditional dress -- leapt up and accompanied the students in dance. I was so moved watching this energetic school community celebrate their education -- and I think everyone was touched by Youssou's final song, "Africa," which expressed the dreams of a hopeful continent.