by Madeline Watts and Lori Galambos – Project interns

Caroline’s parents died when she was young. She and her younger siblings moved in with their grandmother, but the grandmother’s own frail health meant Caroline had a lot of responsibility taking care of the family. In spite of these challenges, Caroline was the top performing student of her class throughout primary school. With tuition support from the Umoja Project, she was able to go to high school, and again she excelled. However, in her third year, she disappeared from school one day. After weeks of trying to trace her, the Umoja Project staff found her staying with a distant relative with her newborn son. She was ashamed of the circumstances that led to her pregnancy and assumed she would not be able to complete her schooling.

To Caroline’s surprise, Umoja Project staff and school teachers worked together to make sure Caroline could resume her education. A relative provides care for baby Charles while Caroline studies. Back in school, Caroline quickly resumed her position at the top of her class, and has held onto it ever since. Caroline is currently in her last year of high school and is expected to perform exceedingly well, perhaps even setting a school record for her score on the national exam she will take in November!

Caroline is a soft spoken leader who presents herself with confidence. Her big, warm smile is accompanied by dimples. She says she loves her dimples, which is a small glimpse into the self-acceptance and courage of this young woman.

GET UP is critical for girls like, giving them confidence and the opportunity to see beyond challenges they currently face. Teachers, guardians and former Umoja students lead sessions on a variety of topics such as coping with emotions, legal rights and reproductive health. The attention given to the girls and the unique struggles they face gives a message to Caroline and her friends that they matter. Knowing they matter inspires them to speak up in class, to value themselves and to dream.

Your support for young girls like Caroline equips them with the information and the confidence needed to overcome challenges they face due to their vulnerability. We thank you for your support!