Sponsored child finds hope amidst year of personal loss

Kiroshini is a bright star in her village in India, where she’s head of her class and a top achiever in extra-curricular activities. And, although the light in her life dimmed due to a deeply personal loss last year, she’s determined to keep inspiring others.

The 14-year-old admits it’s been a struggle since she lost her father suddenly last year, but she’s found a positive outlet through creative learning centres (CLCs) established by Children Believe.

These sanctuaries offer alternative ways to learn and grow — even through the pandemic — by tapping into song, dance, storytelling, games and even contests.

And, the overachiever, who was previously a self-professed “timid child” found her voice at her local CLC. She’s working her way through contests as she builds her skills at the centre — from an orator competition (first prize), and a district quiz (second prize), to a drawing contest (second prize) and a government-run scholarship program (first prize).

“The youth group in my village honoured me by placing a grand banner at the centre of our village so everyone can see it,” recalls Kiroshini, explaining what happened after the scholarship competition. “I was excited.”

What’s more, Kiroshini has been attending classes through a television program, so she’s grateful for the CLC, which has become a second school to her, helping her improve her scholastic achievement and encourage her creativity, through song, arts and crafts and, of course, special contests.

“I am very thankful and grateful … for such a lovely platform to nurture my talent. I’m convinced I will go to great heights in my future,” says the eighth-grader.

And, now that Kiroshini’s nurturing her confidence, she’s closer to reaching her dream of becoming an advocate for those in need, an idea spurred by her relationship with her sponsor.

“My sponsor ought to be a kind person,” she explains. “Because of his kindness, and the love he showered upon me, the thought to help others appeared in my heart. Like him, I will help other people who need it.”

Learn more about sponsorship today.

About Children Believe

Children Believe works globally to empower children to dream fearlessly, stand up for what they believe in — and be heard. For 60+ years, we’ve brought together brave young dreamers, caring supporters and partners, and unabashed idealists. Together, we’re driven by a common belief: creating access to education — inside and outside of classrooms — is the most powerful tool children can use to change their world.

About Childfund Alliance

A member of ChildFund Alliance, Children Believe is part of a global network of child-focused development organizations working to create opportunities for children and youth, their families and communities. ChildFund helps nearly 23-million children and their families in 70 countries overcome poverty and underlying conditions that prevent children from achieving their full potential. We work to end violence against children; provide expertise in emergencies and disasters to ease the harmful impact on children and their communities; and engage children and youth to create lasting change and elevate their voices in decisions that affect their lives.