Stories of Change: Amina’s Journey from Despair to Hope

Amina with her grandmother and siblings

A Childhood Marked by Hardship

At just 15 years old, Amina has already faced more challenges than many experience in a lifetime. Growing up in Aloyi village, Patongo sub-county, Agago District, she was raised in a home filled with fear and uncertainty.

“My story begins in a home torn apart by domestic violence,” Amina shares. “My parents separated when my mother, unable to endure the pain inflicted by my father, left us. His behavior, especially when he was drunk, created an unsafe and unbearable environment.”

After her mother’s departure, Amina was left in the care of her elderly grandmother, who struggles with mobility and is unable to work. This meant there was no one to provide for their household, forcing Amina and her older siblings to take on the responsibility of survival.

Struggling to Stay in School

Like many children living in extreme poverty, Amina’s education was never guaranteed.

“I was always afraid that I would have to drop out of school,” she recalls. “My grandmother couldn’t afford my educational needs, and my siblings and I had to work in other people’s gardens just to earn money for school supplies.”

The weight of responsibility on Amina was immense. At such a young age, she was not only a student but also a breadwinner, helping to support her family through hard labor.

On top of these struggles, Amina carried an even deeper fear—that she would end up like her older sister, who was forced to drop out of school in Primary Six and became pregnant.

“I felt hopeless,” Amina admits. “I thought I had no future.”

Amina with her grandmother

An Unexpected Opportunity

Everything changed earlier this year when Amina’s Senior One results were released. Desperate to continue her education, she decided to seek help.

“I went to the Local Council Five Chairperson of Agago District because I knew he cared about education,” she says. “When I explained my situation, he promised to find me an opportunity to continue my studies.”

The Chairperson contacted the Te-Kworo Foundation, explaining Amina’s circumstances. When the Foundation agreed to meet with her, he bought her school requirements himself and personally took her to Kworo High School.

“From there, the education coordinator enrolled me under a full scholarship,” Amina recalls.

The moment she stepped onto the Kworo High School campus was one she will never forget.

“Studying at Kworo High School had always been my dream,” she says. “I had friends there and admired everything about the school. When I got the opportunity to join, I felt so happy. Te-Kworo Foundation has changed my life.”

Amina walking home from school

A Future Filled with Hope

Today, Amina is thriving.

“The opportunity to study at Kworo High School has lifted a huge weight off my shoulders,” she says. “Unlike other students who must contribute something toward their education, my full scholarship covers everything except my personal necessities. That is a huge relief for me.”

For the first time, Amina sees a future for herself—one where she doesn’t have to drop out of school or sacrifice her dreams.

“I still have five years of secondary school ahead of me, but I am optimistic. By the grace of God, I will finish Senior Four and Senior Six at Kworo High School and go on to university to become a teacher.

Her journey has been difficult, but her determination has never wavered.

“I want to express my deepest gratitude for the opportunity I have been given,” she says. “I pray that God blesses everyone who sacrifices their time and resources to support me and other girls at Kworo High School. May you continue to receive abundant blessings and good health.

A Life Transformed

Amina’s story is a powerful reminder of how education changes lives. Thanks to the Te-Kworo Foundation, a girl who once felt hopeless now walks confidently toward a brighter future.

Together, we are transforming lives—one girl at a time.

Support a Student Like Amina Today

*Name has been changed to protect the privacy and safety of the student.

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Restoring Hope: Supporting Elders and Children with Special Needs in Kitgum, Uganda

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