Cinderellas of Bukavu

As you already know Natalina of the Ek Abana center, as well as welcoming the girls who are victims of abandonment, she tries to help, thanks to the funds she receives, even the most distressed children in the nighborood. Life for the children of Bukavu hasn’t always been easy, but now thanks to your support they are overcoming their painful past and enjoying being kids! Are you wondering how these children’s lives look like?

Let’s ask Arlete!

Hi Arlete, can you introduce yourself?
"Hi! My name is Arlete, I’m 12 and this year I’m attending the fourth year of elementary school."

Do you enjoy school?
"I love going to school because every day I can learn something new and I know that If I work hard I can find a good job and help my family. When I grow up I’d like to be a teacher. My favourite subject is French, so maybe I can be a French teacher! "

How does your day look like?
"In the morning I go to school, sometimes I also stay there in the afternoon because there are additional classes for children who want to improve their academic performance. Then I go home and help doing the housework, because I have a lot of siblings, so my parents need some help from each one of us. Usually I wash dishes and go fetch water."

What do you like to do in your free time?
"I like playing with my friends both from home and school, my favourite games are skipping rope and hide and seek.  The thing I like the most is singing and I am a member of the Church choir, which is called "Kizito et Annaurité”. The Church also has a dance group, so going to Church is always fun. "

Is there something you want to say to Ek Abana sponsors?
"Just thank you! Going to school has changed my life, I learned many things and met new friends, I feel safe there and whenever me or my family are going through some tough time we are never alone. "