Breaking Barriers: How APPRENTICE Helped a Girl Achieve Her Educational Dreams

In a remote village in South Sudan, where traditions run deep and opportunities for girls are scarce, lived a young girl named Mariam. From a young age, Mariam had a fierce love for learning. She would often be found with her nose buried in a book, dreaming of a future where she could be a doctor, teacher, or engineer. But in her village, education was not seen as a priority for girls. Many were expected to marry young, take care of the household, and leave schooling behind.

Mariam’s parents, while supportive in their own way, faced immense pressure from their community to follow this traditional path. They struggled with the belief that investing in a girl’s education was a waste, as she would eventually leave the family to join her husband’s household. With limited resources and a cultural bias against educating girls, it seemed that Mariam’s dreams would be cut short.

But Mariam was determined, and her passion for education caught the attention of a visiting volunteer from APPRENTICE, an organization committed to promoting social equity and supporting the community in South Sudan. The volunteer was struck by Mariam’s intelligence and her unyielding desire to learn, despite the obstacles in her way.

Recognizing Mariam’s potential, APPRENTICE stepped in to provide the support she needed. They met with her parents and the village elders, engaging in sensitive and respectful discussions about the importance of educating girls. APPRENTICE emphasized that investing in Mariam’s education would not only benefit her but the entire community.

After several meetings, Mariam’s parents were convinced. They agreed to let her continue her education, and APPRENTICE provided the financial support necessary to cover school fees, uniforms, and supplies. They also offered Mariam mentorship and guidance, helping her navigate the challenges of being one of the few girls in her village to pursue higher education.

With APPRENTICE’s support, Mariam flourished. She excelled in her studies, quickly becoming one of the top students in her class. Her success inspired other girls in the village, and soon more parents were coming forward, asking how they could get similar support for their daughters.

Today, Mariam is a proud graduate, having completed her secondary education with top honors. She’s now preparing to attend university, where she plans to study medicine. Her dream of becoming a doctor is closer than ever, and she is determined to return to her village one day to provide much-needed healthcare and serve as a role model for other girls.

Mariam’s story is a powerful example of how education can transform lives and communities. It’s a testament to the impact that organizations like APPRENTICE can have when they invest in the potential of young girls. Through education, Mariam has broken through the barriers of tradition and limited resources, proving that with the right support, dreams can indeed come true.