Meet Irene Manase. At 12 years old, she is learning to believe in herself, preparing for Class 6, and holding on to her dream of becoming a doctor.
When Irene first came to Shade School, she struggled with low self-esteem. She was scared, could neither read nor write, and had heard people in her community say that she would not be able to study at Shade because she knew nothing and could not speak English.
But Irene chose to believe otherwise.
“I believed that with God, I am able,” she recalls.
Since joining Shade, Irene has gained confidence, learned to read and write, and discovered the meaning of respect, kindness, and love. For her, love goes beyond family; it means caring for everyone around her. She has also found a peaceful environment where teachers encourage her to believe in herself and pursue her education.
Now, she is excited to enter Class 6, not only to do well in her national examinations but also to become an example to younger pupils and her siblings at home.
Her dream is to become a doctor. “If I am a doctor, I can save the lives of people who are in danger,” she says.
Behind this ambition is a deep appreciation for those who have supported her along the way. Irene speaks lovingly of her parents, especially her mother, who prays for her and encourages her to work hard. She also hopes her teachers will live long enough to continue sharing the love and care that have shaped her experience at Shade. She promises to continue praying for them, even when she is no longer at Shade Campus.
To the donors who make her education possible, she has a simple message: “I love them a lot and I thank them. I pray to God that they will have good health and a long life.”
