We're Celebrating Another Milestone Graduation!
It was a sunny day, both literally and figuratively, as 12 young women graduated from the ChildVoice program at the Lukome Center in northern Uganda earlier this month. We are proud of what they have accomplished over the past 18 months and are eager to see them step into the next exciting—and much brighter—chapter of their lives.
Beatrice, graduation March 2017 with Class 8 from Lukome Center, Lukodi, Uganda
Beatrice is one of the young women who worked hard to overcome the trauma of her war-affected childhood. She says she most appreciates the skills her teachers taught her so she can start a new life, including the farming skills that have resulted in a job offer for her to work on the ChildVoice farm. Beatrice also has other proficiencies now in things like hair braiding and sewing, which are potential sources of income. Thankfully, as a ChildVoice graduate, she can support her children and other family members.
Gladys, Class 8, graduated with a certificate in Catering/Bakery and Salon, from the Lukome Center, Lukodi, Uganda
Gladys, another March graduate, says she looks forward to being independent and working hard to meet the needs of her child. She says ChildVoice has changed her life completely. She used to be easily angered, but now has learned self-control. She also is thankful to ChildVoice for the treatment she received for her ulcers, which now are not nearly as severe as they used to be. Most of all, she wants to help others as she begins her new life.
More than 90% of our graduates successfully reintegrate with their communities, often opening and running their own businesses using the vocational and life skills they've developed as students at the Lukome Center. Most importantly, each and every girl leaves the Center with the reassurance that she will always be a valued member of the ChildVoice family.