Stories
Steven's Story
"Growing up in a less privileged community has not only offered financial and academic challenges, on the contrary, it has helped me realize the value of education," says Steven Miti, a 19 year old student. He attended Garden Presbyterian Community School in Lusaka, Zambia, one of the Faith works school that feeds into Garden Hill, from grades one to seven. Currently, Steven is in eleventh grade at Garden Hill Secondary School, and his favorite subject is science. Steven plans to go to university to pursue a medical degree. He says the teachers at his school give him hope and inspire him by persuading him to work hard on his school work. He also likes to play football (soccer) for his school team. He also enjoys attending religious activities.
Steven extends his gratitudes to all individuals and sponsors who contribute towards his education, not forgetting his parents for their tireless efforts. On his own he could never pay them back, but God who is "All Knowing" will reward them. Steven adds, "My future dream is to help other less privileged children in my community because I believe and myself and this reality."
Bridget's Story
Bridget Lungu is a 17 year old student at Garden Hill Secondary School and comes from a family of ten. She attended Garden Presbyterian from grade one until grade seven. Bridget considers herself to be fortunate to be enrolled in a Christian school and said, "Being a Christian, the school has helped me be stronger in faith through daily devotions." She also appreciates the good teachers who are supportive, not only in the academic aspect of her life, but also in emotional, physical, and moral aspects of her life. She is especially thankful for her seventh grade teacher and head teacher who helped her make it to Secondary School. She also cannot forget Reverend Jane Nyirongo for financial and spiritual support.
Bridget comments, "The benefits of being at Garden Hill are a conducive environment with enough books for reading, and computers, among other things. Someone cannot go wrong being enrolled at Garden Hill." Bridget's favorite subject is math, but finds science both challenging and interesting, and she dreams of becoming a doctor. She promises to work hard in science with assistance from her teachers. Bridget would also like donors to know, "My hobbies are reading and hanging out with good friends who have a positive mindset."
Edward's Story
Edward Phiri is a 19 year old student in ninth grade at Garden Hill Secondary School. He is a orphan; his father died before his was born, while his mother died when he was still very young. He currently lives with a cousin who is a self-employed welder, making doors, window frames, and other metal fittings. Edward started in grade three at Garden Presbyterian, and skipped grades five and six because of his high academic performance. He would be unable to pay the Garden Hill fees without financial assistance and almost had to attend a nearby government school, but fortunately received the financial assistance needed.
Edward's favorite subjects are Social Studies, English, and Religious Education, however, he finds math and business studies challenging. When he finished school, he aspires to be a pilot or accountant, and comments, "Though I am poor in mathematics, I really want to improve, of course with the help of my subject teachers, and do well to achieve my dream." In his spare time he plays football (soccer), and does some piece works to raise money for his school, such as school uniforms and books (sometimes his cousin helps him with school projects). Edward is grateful for his teachers because of what they have contributed to his life, especially Miss Mwansa, the Head Teacher, Miss Mstini and Miss Chirwa. These teachers encouraged him to work hard at school and achieve his dreams. He comments that his teachers are supportive in all aspects of his life. Edward would also like to thank all those who show interest in his journey, including donors, and wishes them God's abundant blessings.
The real value of this project lies in the stories of the students this project supports. These students are motivated and dedicated, and each one has their own unique stories and goals worthy of your attention. Below are the stories of some of the students we have supported. We encourage you to take the time to learn about them before you donate.