Real heroes do exist
Because one woman’s dedication has transformed countless lives through education and opportunity. This page shares their journey and how others can support it.
The Story of the Maria Cristina Foundation
The Beginning
In 2005, during a stopover in Bangladesh, Maria Conceicao was moved by the extreme poverty she witnessed in Dhaka. This experience led her to develop humanitarian projects aimed at providing local communities with education and a path out of poverty.
A Lifelong Mission
Named after her adoptive mother, the foundation was established to provide education, dignity, and opportunity to those who need it most.
Transforming Lives in Dhaka
The Dhaka School
A dedicated school offering high-quality education to help students compete for international university placements.
The Local Clinic
Established to provide the community with dental treatments, medical check-ups, and essential vaccinations.
The Pre – School
A safe space for the community's youngest children to receive critical early learning and creative development.
About Maria Conceição
The Resilience of a Real Hero
World-Record Achiever
Maria is the first Portuguese woman to reach both the North and South Poles.
Mountaineer and Explorer
A humanitarian founder who has summited some of the world's highest peaks to highlight the potential for human resilience.
Key Impact Areas
Comprehensive Education
Programs ranging from pre-school through university and adult learning.
Family support
Covering essential needs like food and safety so children can remain in school rather than entering the workforce.
Global Access
Providing university scholarships and international internship opportunities to break social and financial barriers.
Explore Maria’s Journey
Follow Maria’s personal journey of overcoming obstacles through her published works. These books detail her experiences and the mindset required to create a lasting impact.
A woman on the top of the world
Exploring Maria's path to the world's most extreme environments.
Explore Her Books
Supporting Inspiring Journeys
