Sharifa joined Building Hope Project in Primary 4 during a difficult period in her life when continuing her education seemed uncertain. Facing instability at home and limited financial support, she often had to help her mother with small jobs, such as selling corn and washing clothes, to make ends meet. But once she became a BHP student, with her school fees fully covered and two meals provided each day, Sharifa was able to stay in school and focus on her learning without fear of interruption. With ongoing support from the BHP team—both academically and emotionally—she began to thrive.

Sharifa soon rose to the top of her class and went on to become a standout member of BHP’s Seed of Hope Skilling Cooperative during the pandemic. There, she learned crocheting and tailoring, skills she still uses today to earn income during school breaks. Now in her final year at university, Sharifa is training to become a teacher and will soon be the first in her family to graduate with a degree. Her journey reflects the power of education and community to transform a young girl’s life—and she is determined to pass that hope forward to others.

• Photo 1:  Sharifa with BHP colleagues (2019)

• Photo 2: Sharifa in BHP leadership lab program (2019)

• Photo 3: Sharifa participating in the COVID Rapid Relief Program (2020)

• Photo 4: Sharifa greeting BHP volunteers (2022)

• Photo 5: Sharifa in her family home with BHP volunteers (2019)