By Amy M Baty-Herbert | Project Coordinator
Dear project supporters,
Poverty prevents millions of Nigerian youths from going to college. Thanks to your generous support a scholarship was awarded to Chiamaka through our partner organization in Nigeria, S.M.I.L.E.
She tells us in her words how much this scholarship meant to her.
My name is Chiamaka. Coming across S.M.I.L.E is one of the best things that has happened in my life. I come from a family of 6. We lost our dad when I was just 14 and since then my mother who is a petty trader has been left to raise us children all by herself. Because my mother's income was so little, it was very difficult for her and sadly she realized she could not afford to send me to college. I became sad because my friends were gaining admission into college and I could not afford college.
Since I was a little girl I always wanted to be a leader. So when S.M.I.L.E, organized a leadership and Mentoring programme for secondary schools, I gladly enrolled. That programme changed my life. It helped me discover my purpose and completely changed my mindset about what I could achieve in life. Since then I resolved never to give up on my dreams.
Through the support of S.M.I.L.E, I was able to acquire a skill in fashion designing. I have started earning money for myself and am also able to support my mother. Also, through S.M.I.L.E's educational support scholarship programme, I have gained admission into the University of Lagos where I am now studying Guidance and Counselling with one of the best results in my department. I'm so happy because my dreams are finally becoming a reality and I am also reaching out to help others in every way I can.
When I think about how far I've come I feel truly blessed that an organization like S.M.I.L.E exists. I pray they will continue to exist and get all the support they need so they can continue to help other young people like me. Help make their dreams come true.
We greatly appreciate your support that made college possible for Chiamaka. We welcome your continued support in making a difference in the lives of more students.
With great appreciation,
Amy
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