I was 15 when I arrived at CAMELEON on May 31, 2016. CAMELEON backed me up a lot, not only financially but also with my physical, emotional, and social well-being and especially with my studies. There, I learnt how to live together and how to manage my emotions. Thanks to CAMELEON, I could strengthen my skills, abilities, and knowledge. The association also let me become aware of my school’s abilities and helped me finish my studies.
When I was in the Reinsertion and Autonomy program, I did not feel any difficulties or big obstacles to readjust myself. That is why, I only stayed for a short time. Yet, I am still grateful towards the team for trying to understand me, to guide me and to give me a second chance to continue and finish my studies. They knew I could succeed despite the bad decisions I had taken.
At heart, the most important lesson I learnt at CAMELEON and that had a great impact was to learn how to be myself; an independent person; a strong woman who knows how to protect herself and how to take care of herself. I decided to do short studies and to specialise into catering. Finishing my studies as fast as possible allowed me to find a job quickly so to help fund my siblings’ education. Moreover, thanks to my professional diploma, I hope to have a stable job one day with a good salary that would allow me to support my family’s needs.
Besides, I would like to tell my CAMELEON sponsored mates: Never stop dreaming. For each sacrifice you ought to do, there is hope in a better future. Do not give up in front of life’s difficulties and hardships. They are challenges to take on to show how strong you are. Life is not always rosy, so sometimes, you need to learn to smile regardless of the pain.
Finally, I would also like to share a note of thanks: I would like to tell my CAMELEON family, to the entire team, and to my sponsor that I thank them very much for all the support they gave me. To the CAMELEON team, thanks for your love, your attention, your sacrifices, and the moment shared, I am thankful for that. Keep on helping children who really need help, to change and save their lives, and especially to help those girls reach their lives’ goals. CAMELEON was the best moment in my life, and I am proud of having been a CAMELEON grantee. Thank you so much!
*The name was modified for the child’s safety.