Young boy’s determination to succeed

Plan helped Stephen fulfil his dream

Stephen is 16 years of age and lives in a small village in Tanzania. Interested in masonry, he decided to apply to join a vocational training course at college, as it would lead to sustainable employment and would enable him to take care of his brother and sister.

He sat for the admission test and passed with flying colors, becoming one of the few selected applicants. Unfortunately though, Stephen was unable to attend as he couldn't afford the fee required for the school. Coming from a very poor family and the eldest of three children, since his parents passed away many yeas ago, he had become primarily responsible for his siblings.

Owning an old camera, Stephen decided to start a photography business in his village and to save the money made for the training. Although the business made some money, it was still not enough for him to look after his family and pay the school fees.

Fortunately, Plan started working in Stephen’s village and as part of our sponsorship programme, in which the community identifies the poorest and most vulnerable children, Stephen’s brother Balekele became sponsored. With Plan's support within Stephen's village, it was made possible for him to qualify for a scholarship.

Two years later, Stephen is now a very motivated college student in masonry and brick making. In his spare time, he still does photographing and manages to earn enough to take care of his family. His determination to succeed is a good example to the children of his village.