Orphans Rising in Unity is a non-profit organization based in the United States dedicated to giving back to orphans in Sierra Leone, West Africa.  The organization is focused on uplifting, mentoring, and supporting orphans and inspire them to overcome the obstacle of losing their parents and strive for their goals. 

 

The organization was founded after the Ebola outbreak when many children lost their parents and guardians due to the epidemic. 

 

Founder Ya-Marie Sesay, former Miss Sierra Leone USA 2016 believed orphans were overlooked especially those that lost their parents due to Ebola. She decided to take the initiative to dedicate her time and money to mentoring and giving back to orphans in her parents' hometown Pujehun, and Lunsar, Sierra Leone. 

 

Sesay launched ORU in December 2016 where she met with over 200 orphans and provided food and toys for the holiday. The organization continues to give back through monetary donations, school supplies, clothing drives and more.