⌛Where Are They Now: Martin’s journey from sponsored child to electrician and entrepreneur

Without a father, I grew up in a very vulnerable family. My mother tried to feed us and take care of us as best as she could, but if I hadn’t been sponsored, I don’t think I’d be where I am today. I would have had to work at an early age to support my family.

Being sponsored gave me the chance to take full advantage of my rights as a child. I learned about values such as recognition, justice and fairness. I got to speak at a gathering of young people to help fight violence against children which strengthened my leadership skills. Before that I didn’t talk much, being extremely reserved.

Choosing a new challenge

Now, I’m 26, married and the father of a lovely three-year-old daughter. Since leaving school, I have trained as an electrician, and I install solar energy panels in homes and businesses.

It is a point of honour and pride for me to always satisfy my customers. My new goal is to expand and develop my business, extend my customer network and take on more employees.

My sponsor was there for me and my family. His gift helped rebuild my mother’s house, which collapsed in a flood in 2009. Mr. Robert is a man I will never forget. He helped change my life and the lives of those around me.

You can make a difference today by sponsoring a child like Martin in Burkina Faso. Discover how your support can transform lives!

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.