Reflections From Our Volunteer, Rakeb

Over the past month, I’ve had the opportunity to work with some of the most incredible students, students who are eager to learn and full of big hopes and dreams

From the very beginning, they showed up with open minds, curiosity, and determination. No matter how challenging learning a new language can be, they continue to come to class ready to try, to participate, and to grow always with smiles on their faces.

What stood out to me the most was not just what they are learning, but how they are learning. Many of them shared that reading, writing, and translating are still difficult, yet they don’t give up. Instead, they keep practicing, asking questions, and supporting one another.

Hearing their reflections meant a lot to me. Some spoke about dreams of becoming doctors and helping people in their communities, while others shared passions for creativity, like fashion and self-expression. Their goals are different, but they all share the same determination to build a better future for themselves.

Even in this short amount of time, they told me that they have already learned so much, whether it’s introducing themselves, reading new words, or simply having the confidence to try speaking in English. And honestly, that confidence is one of the most powerful things to witness.

These may seem like small steps, but they represent something much bigger growth, resilience, and belief in themselves.

Teaching them has been just as meaningful for me as learning has been for them. It’s reminded me that progress doesn’t have to be big to matter every word learned, every sentence written, every moment of confidence counts.

I’m so proud of how far they’ve come already, and I’m excited to continue this journey with them.

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Rakeb is a psychology graduate from Canada with a background in youth support. She worked closely with our children to strengthen their language skills, personal development, and build confidence. We are grateful to Rakeb for her passion and commitment!

We are deeply grateful for her heart to serve and the positive impact she is making in the lives of our children.

If you are passionate about empowering young lives and would like to make a meaningful difference, we warmly invite you to join us as a volunteer. Please email us your cover letter and CV to info@braveheartsethiopia.com

Catching Up with the Brave Hearts Program!

Dahnay at the BHE Drop in Center 2019 and on her graduation in 2023

We’re excited to share that the Brave Hearts Ethiopia program continues to grow and flourish. While we haven’t been able to send updates as regularly as we’d like, so much has been happening on the ground and providing holistic support has been at the heart of it all.

A Story of Resilience: Dahnay’s Journey

One of the many bright moments this year has been the graduation of Dahnay, a young woman whose story reflects the power of perseverance and community. After losing both parents, Dahnay faced countless challenges as a young orphan. When she joined BHE, she found a space where she could not only dream but also begin building a future.

Holistic Support in Action

With the support of Brave Hearts Ethiopia, Dahnay received holistic care, including nutrition support, academic and psychosocial guidance, participating in programs that helped her grow in confidence and self-belief. After completing high school, she was supported through private university and last year, she proudly graduated with a degree in Marketing Management. Today, she is employed, self-reliant, and thriving.

Reflecting on her journey, Dahnay shared:

“Brave Hearts Ethiopia gave me everything. I went to school, I had clothes and food, and I didn’t have to worry. I was supported through college and received love. I don’t feel like I lost my mom and dad — BraveHearts became my family. I don’t have words to thank you for all you’ve given me.”

Stories like Dahnay’s journey remind us why we do this work — and why your partnership truly matters.

Home Visit by Social Workers

The BraveHearts program supported 73 children (of which 42 were girls) and 9 elders (of which 7 were women). Of the 73 children and youth in school, 5 attended KG and preschool, 30 were in primary school, 22 were in secondary school and 13 were in higher education. Three children had special needs.

To meet the diverse needs of our children, including those with special needs, we delivered a wide range of wraparound services that supported their learning, wellbeing, and development. Our programs provided:

• Educational support, from early childhood learning through to higher education. Volunteer tutors run study sessions that help children keep up with their coursework, especially those facing significant social and economic challenges.

• School and home engagement, with regular visits by our social workers to check in with teachers, monitor student progress, and collaborate with families to find sustainable solutions when a child is struggling.

• Psychosocial care, including individual counseling for children and guardians. Group sessions on Saturdays are a favorite among the kids and cover life skills such as managing stress, building self-esteem, resolving conflict, and cultivating healthy relationships.

Healthy After School Meals at the BHE Drop In Center

• Nutritional support, with warm meals offered at our drop-in center each day to help children stay nourished and energised and provide monthly food allowance also help families at home.

• Health and sanitation services, ensuring children have access to medical care when needed, as well as essential hygiene supplies. The drop-in center provides a safe and clean space for children to shower — something many of their homes cannot.

• Safe recreation, where children are encouraged to simply be kids — to play, laugh, and enjoy their childhood through games, sports, and community time.

Visit by team from Emirates Airlines

Strengthening Community Through Connection

This quarter, we were honored to welcome guests and friends who brought joy and encouragement to our program. A visiting team generously donated school supplies, helping us equip the children with tools they need to succeed. A family from the Netherlands spent time with the kids, sharing in their stories, laughter, and bringing gifts that sparked excitement and joy.

We also celebrated the holidays, with music, poetry, dance, and drama. It was a celebration of the children's creativity and confidence. Each child and family also received holiday support to enjoy the festive season at home.

Children performing drama at Christmas Celebration

We extend our gratitude to our major partner, Dean Hanson and the Hanson Family Foundation — your belief in this mission continues to carry us through. And to each one of you, our supporters and donors in our GlobalGiving community — thank you. Whether through one donation or ongoing support, your contribution is part of something much greater than words can express.

Together, we are creating opportunities, nurturing resilience, and helping young people step into the future with hope.

With gratitude,

The BraveHearts Ethiopia Family