When Helena was in primary school in Kimoukouwa, she loved her classes so much that she dreamed of going to secondary school. She shared her dream with her mother, Ngotai, who never went to school, but wanted this opportunity for her daughter. However, they faced two huge challenges: poverty, and a father who expected that Helena would get married once she finished primary school. Both Ngotai and her daughter feared that Helena was not safe if she remained in the village.

Ngotai, who was in poor heath and caring for three children, tried her best to raise money to send Helena to school. She carried firewood and grass for other people, cared for neighbours’ children and tried to prepare and sell local medicine at the market. But there was never enough money.

Helena had heard about TEMBO. She prayed that maybe this could be her opportunity as well. Ngotai, in spite of her husband’s objections, walked to TEMBO where she advocated for her daughter. When Helena found out she would be sponsored by TEMBO, she was overjoyed. ”My fears just moved out.”

Now in Form 4 at Longido Secondary School, Helena hopes to go on to university and perhaps become a lecturer. “TEMBO gives me hope”, she says, “that I will reach my goal.” Mama Ngtoai, too is grateful: “I thank God for TEMBO.”