January 12, 2022
Young Heroes’ Stepping-Stones Sessions Bring Hope
Babazile Bhila (20) stays in the Tsambokhulu community under the Mhlume constituency. “I live with my 82-year-old grandmother, and life has not been easy as we sometimes go to sleep on an empty stomach,” she said. “There were times when I thought dying would be the best solution because of the pain I was going through, while my peers have parents taking care of them and going to school; life is difficult without both parents. I am grateful, though, to have my grandmother who tries to ensure that my siblings and I are taken care of.”
Babazile noted that her life changed when she joined Young Heroes Stepping-Stones sessions facilitated in her constituency. At first, she was reluctant to join the sessions because of organizations that had previously made empty promises in the constituency. Finally, however, she joined the educational sessions because of boredom, which kept her busy and away from the streets.
“On day one of the sessions, we were informed that there are 12 sessions to attend, which allows one to stand a chance of getting assistance on education support. Education is my passion, and I knew having that chance would change my situation and dreams of being a surgeon one day,” she said.
Because of her determination, Babazile attended all sessions and was finally selected to be one of the recipients supported with educational funding through the Halt Project funded by CANGO. Young Heroes facilitated Babazile’s enrolment at a nearby school and further paid her school fees in full. Additionally, Young Heroes provided her with a school uniform, including school shoes and study material.
“Thank you, Young Heroes, for being a parent to the most vulnerable. You have helped me strive to my fullest potential. I now view challenges as stepping stones to my future aspirations,” she added.
Tags: Education, Eswatini, orphans, The Halt Project
