By Koni Yimer | Founder and Director
As we move further into 2026, I continue to be inspired by the growth, resilience, and generosity that surround our Brave Hearts Ethiopia family. Because of your support, 71 children and youth and 9 vulnerable elders received holistic care during the first quarter of the year, ensuring that children could remain healthy, safe, and focused on their futures. Most importantly, every child enrolled in formal education successfully completed the first semester of the academic year.
One of the greatest joys of this quarter was celebrating a new milestone: in the first few months of 2016, four of our young people graduated from higher education and successfully transitioned into employment. Three secured positions in retail businesses, while another joined a furniture production company and is continuing further studies in Marketing and Sales Management. For the younger children in our program, seeing these graduates begin their professional journeys sends a powerful message that education truly can transform lives.
Behind these milestones was the steady, everyday work that makes long-term change possible. Children received academic support through 347 after-school tutorial sessions led by dedicated volunteers and teachers—134 sessions for younger children and 213 sessions for older students. A volunteer from Canada also facilitated 20 English and communication sessions, helping children strengthen their confidence and language skills. The library and computer center continued to provide a safe space for learning, while educational materials, including 140 pens, 35 pencils, and 15 exercise books, helped children stay engaged in their studies.
Children's wellbeing remained at the center of our work. Monthly food assistance reached all 71 children and 9 elders, while five children with health conditions received supplementary nutrition. Seven children accessed medical care, 111 bars of soap and 40 packs of sanitary pads were distributed to support health and dignity, and five child-headed households received rent support to ensure stability and protection. Psychosocial support continued through 12 weekly group counseling sessions, alongside individual counseling for 11 children and 8 guardians, helping families navigate challenges and strengthen relationships.
We were equally encouraged to witness leadership emerging from within our own community. In March, a group of Brave Hearts youth came together to establish "Lemigebachew Maheber," an initiative dedicated to supporting vulnerable children and encouraging one another to become active contributors to society. Thirty young people joined the group, developed their own leadership structure, and created a platform for connection and service. Watching youth who once came to us seeking support begin to ask how they can support others has been one of the most meaningful moments of the year so far.
To our major donor and partner, Dean Hanson and the Hanson Family Foundation, thank you for your unwavering belief in the potential of the children and families we serve. Your generosity continues to create opportunities that change lives.
We are equally grateful to every member of the GlobalGiving community. Whether you gave once, shared our story, or have walked alongside us for many years, you are part of these achievements.
Together, you are helping children not only dream of a brighter future, but take confident steps toward building it.
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