There is such great joy in working hand in hand with local people to bring hope, joy, and opportunities to children!

In one village, a retired English teacher continues to teach children on weekends at her own home. She has such a heart for the kids and invited us from the foundation to come alongside her and help with English conversation practice.

The first time we came, only five children showed up. But the following weekend, a few more children joined the group after hearing from their friends about the games, songs, laughter, and fun activities. They had such a great time that they kept coming back, bringing more friends from the neighbourhood. Little by little, our small group began to grow!

And it wasn’t only the children who were having fun, the retired teacher was enjoying every activity with us too! She is always so happy to welcome us, and every time we visit, she generously prepares delicious food for us.

For us, though, the greatest reward is simply seeing the children’s faces light up with smiles, hearing their excited voices and laughter, and watching the sparkle in their eyes when they are able to answer a question correctly and receive a little reward. Those little moments may seem simple, but they mean so much.

A child who is happy, confident, and excited to learn is a beautiful thing to see. What a joy it is to serve alongside local people who already have a heart for their community. We don’t have to do everything ourselves, we can simply come alongside what they are already doing and work hand in hand.

And honestly, the joy is contagious! The children go home smiling, the teacher goes home smiling, and we go home smiling too.

It truly is a never-ending joy to see children happy, learning, and growing together!