Graduation festivities included much singing and dancing, a statement by the graduates, decadent fashion show, speech by the guest of honor, distribution of certificates to the graduates, photo taking, and a delicious meal for all in attendance. It was a joyous day for the young mothers, their families, friends, and the entire staff at EBLI as all celebrated this momentous occasion together.
One part of the statement read by the young mothers in particular stood out to us, and we wanted to share it here as we believe it showcases the importance of the work that we carry out:
"Tumepata heshima kubwa kwa jamii inayo tuzunguka kwani tulipokatisha masomo yetu kwa ajili ya ujauzito jamii ilitutenga, kutudharau na kutuona hatuna thamani tena lakini sasa tunafurahi na kushukuru sana kwa sababu hatudharauliki tena kwa ajili ya wetu tulioupata haha EBLI."
"We have obtained great respect in the surrounding community, for when we were cut off from continuing our school lessons due to pregnancy, the community dismissed us, despised us and saw us as never having value again, but now we are happy and so thankful because we will not be scorned again as a result of what we have obtained here at EBLI."
We at EBLI are grateful for the opportunity, made possible by our generous donors - especially terre des hommes schweiz - to serve and work alongside groups such as these young mothers, for in doing so we are all enriched and made whole.