Melki has been in the EI program for seven years, since the first grade. He is very responsible and dedicated to his studies and his home. He helps his mother to make colchones de tule (reed mats) and also helps with household chores – taking much more responsibility in the home than many kids his age in more fortunate countries.
In past years, he was a very shy kid and didn’t interact much with the EI staff. But last year he joined the team of teenage tutors, and because of that is more sure of himself and interacts much more with the EI team.
He has also participated much more in events in the office. He even spoke with people in the US at the Fiesta de Esperanza over Skype! He has participated in five photography exhibitions, some in person in Nicaragua and some international exhibitions that included his work. This has been the biggest success in his life. He says, “I like photography because through it I have come to know places that I didn’t know before, and have learned more about myself and how to look at the world differently.”
Melki loves going to school and is a very attentive and responsible student. Last year he finished primary school and was given the award for being the best student. Because of this honor, he got to carry the flag of the school!
His parents, siblings and all his family are very proud of all of the successes that he has had. He is grateful for the chance to be a part of the EI program – “From the time I was in the first grade, (EI) has helped me very, very much.”
He has also participated much more in events in the office. He even spoke with people in the US at the Fiesta de Esperanza over Skype! He has participated in five photography exhibitions, some in person in Nicaragua and some international exhibitions that included his work. This has been the biggest success in his life. He says, “I like photography because through it I have come to know places that I didn’t know before, and have learned more about myself and how to look at the world differently.”
Melki loves going to school and is a very attentive and responsible student. Last year he finished primary school and was given the award for being the best student. Because of this honor, he got to carry the flag of the school!
His parents, siblings and all his family are very proud of all of the successes that he has had. He is grateful for the chance to be a part of the EI program – “From the time I was in the first grade, (EI) has helped me very, very much.”
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In Nicaragua 50% of the kids that start 1st grade never finish 5th grade. It is our goal to make this percentage drop significantly.
$30/month is what it takes us at Empowerment International to put a child in school. If you would like to help a child stay in school and get better life, please click on the link below or contact us -
March 2, 2010 at 6:39 pm
I am very proud of your successes .. Melki
March 4, 2010 at 1:20 pm
I like the look and feel of you EI stories website. I visited as part of our GlobalGiving.org due diligence process (basically making sure the paperwork matches the real world).
Nice work Kathy et al. Keep it up!
BTW – I would re-open comments on your about us page.