John Wood, a former Microsoft director, has embarked on a mission to empower young women in low-income countries through education. In 2022, he founded U-Go, an organization dedicated to providing scholarships for women in nine countries, including Bangladesh, Cambodia, and Tanzania. The initiative aims to support 100,000 graduates by 2042, currently assisting 4,320 women with annual scholarships costing US$800 each. Wood emphasizes a commitment to ensuring that funds are used effectively, with a promise of zero leakage of resources. This approach builds on his previous success with Room to Read, a charity that raised over US$750 million to promote literacy and gender equality in education.
U-Go not only provides financial support but also offers wraparound services such as mentorship and emergency funding, recognizing that holistic support is crucial for the success of its scholars. Wood highlights the importance of educated women in driving community development and fostering gender equality. The organizationās model reflects a growing recognition of the need to invest in women's education as a catalyst for broader societal change. By focusing on empowering young women, U-Go aims to create a ripple effect that benefits entire communities, aligning with global efforts to improve educational access and equity for disadvantaged groups [9210a7ea].