where we work -

ROOTA — Rising Out of The Ashes — was founded by Nevine Yassa to break the cycle of intergenerational poverty among the Zabaleen of Manshiyet Nasser, Cairo. The Zabaleen recycle 80% of the city's waste yet remain Egypt's most marginalized community — no formal recognition, no basic infrastructure, limited access to education.

We do not parachute in. All Cairo programs are delivered through boots-on-the-ground partners who have the community's trust and cultural understanding.

In Canada, we serve the less fortunate through weekly hot meals, scholarships, and mentorship — because dignity has no borders.

ROOTA is a Canadian-registered charity. Program outcomes are tracked through partner reporting and annual charitable filings.

In the heart of Cairo, the Zabaleen community transforms what others discard into hope, opportunity, and life.

For generations, these unsung environmental heroes have built one of the world’s most remarkable recycling communities — turning waste into dignity and resilience.

At ROOTA, we stand beside marginalized families in their journey toward education, empowerment, sustainability, and a brighter future.

Because every community deserves the chance to rise.

Behind Cairo’s bustling streets lies a resilient community striving for a brighter future.

Limited access to education, healthcare, and opportunity continues to affect many Zabaleen families — especially women and children. Yet through determination, resilience, and support, lives are being transformed every day.

At ROOTA, we believe every child deserves the chance to learn, every woman deserves dignity, and every family deserves hope for a better tomorrow.