Our Story
In 2006, our founder had a chance encounter with street children and shoe shine boys in a local shopping center. It all began with simple games and lessons in basic English, alphabets, and mathematics. Over a few months, it became clear that these children had a genuine interest in education but lacked the opportunity to attend school.
Determined to make a difference, our founder rented a small apartment next to the slum area where the shoe shine boys lived and started a school for them. Initially, the parents were concerned as their children were no longer bringing money home. To address this, the founder provided basic education in the morning and organized bead jewelry-making sessions in the afternoon. The jewelry was sold to ensure the children could still contribute financially to their families. Additionally, the founder visited each family at least once a month to build trust and relationships.
After one year, the parents began to see the benefits of education. Some shared how their children could now read signboards at hospitals or other places, while others saw a future where their children could work in offices. With their support, the jewelry-making sessions were stopped, and full-time education was provided.
Our Journey
In 2010, the government introduced regulations that made it challenging for small non-formal schools to operate. As a result, we had to transition the children to government schools, despite concerns about the severe discipline they had faced there previously. We adapted by becoming a tuition center, offering free classes in the morning and sending the children to government schools in the afternoon.
Over the years, we have grown into a dedicated team of five teachers working in two locations, providing education from 4th grade up to 12th grade. We have expanded our services to include stitching classes for women, combined with English speaking and biblical education. We also offer medical and nutritional assistance when needed and have recently started a scholarship program for college-bound students who cannot afford tuition. We are excited to soon open a library/study room for all students in the area and introduce computer classes.
Our Impact
In the past 18 years, we have educated an estimated 800 students, facilitated surgeries for at least seven children or their family members, and provided food packages to dozens of families in need. Our efforts have garnered the respect and appreciation of the community.
We are deeply grateful for the impact we have made and remain committed to increasing our reach, bringing hope and a brighter future to those who have never dared to dream.