Martha Wants You to Know
You've heard several of the stories of girls who found our vocational center this year and are now enrolled in our classes.
This week, Hilda and I are bringing you Martha's story. Just over a year ago, Martha graduated from our two-year tailoring certificate program.
Now, her life is much different, and that is all because of you! Just look at how she shines in the photo! This is the life-changing difference your donations make.
Martha's story as told to Hilda
When Martha was just a girl, her education ended too soon. Her parents couldn't afford school fees, and as the daughter, she was the one sent home so her brothers could stay in class. Her father hoped marriage would “secure her future.” But instead, it led to heartbreak. Martha was a victim of forced teen marriage so her family would receive the bride price.
For three long years, Martha faced rejection and abuse in her marriage because she couldn't conceive. When she finally gave birth to her daughter, Praise, she made a quiet promise: “My child will not live the life I did.”
Martha knew she needed a skill that could help her provide for and protect her baby. But every local tailor she approached asked for money she didn't have. She also had no one to watch her baby while she learned.
Then one ordinary day, while buying sugar and porridge at the trading center in Buwudha village, Martha's eyes caught a room full of sewing machines. Curious, she asked about it and discovered the Vocational Center, supported by the Children's Legacy Partnership. When Martha learned that training was provided free, and she could bring her baby, she felt that hope had finally found her.
From that day on, Martha never missed a class. With baby Praise with her each day, she learned to sew, to plan, and to believe in herself again. She also participated in all of the reproductive health lessons and learned about her rights. Through the program, she gained not only tailoring skills but also confidence and encouragement from the instructors and the other girls.
Two years later, Martha graduated with a certificate and a brand-new life. Today, she's working with local organizations to train other women in tailoring. Praise is thriving in nursery school.
Martha's next dream is to open her own tailoring class in Naluwoli Village so that she can pass on the same hope she was given.
Martha said, “CLP and the vocational center have given me and my daughter our future back.”
This is the heart of our mission: to empower people to live and thrive without aid, and to then be able to lift others.
Because of your support, Martha and her daughter now have a life she could never have imagined!
With Gratitude,
Mary
P.S.- We've got something meaningful coming up soon to help reach more girls, and I'd love for you to be part of it. I'll follow up with more details soon, but for now, I wanted you to know how much you're appreciated and what a difference you're making!
