rosette

Bright, beautiful Rosette is one of the secondary school students sponsored by Change the Truth. She is actually sponsored by an individual donor, someone who specifically chose to assist this amazing young woman.

I noticed Rosette during my first visit to the orphanage in 2006. It simply wasn’t possible NOT to be struck by the energy and talent she exuded as part of the St. Mary Kevin dancing and singing troupe. Her smile was dazzling.

But when I’d see her walking about the grounds of the orphanage, she seemed kind of sad.

Toward the end of my visit in 2007, Rosette slipped me a handwritten note. Her words were simple and direct: would I please find it in my heart to find a way to sponsor her in school?

On my last day at SMK that year, I told her the good news that we’d be able to do just that. Rosette’s face lit up, she flashed her brilliant smile, and then she folded her arms around me.

It’d be safe to say that our trips to SMK wouldn’t be nearly as meaningful without Rosette. She is willing and helpful no matter the task. She is talented beyond belief. She is grateful and humble. She is loving toward everyone.

One of Melissa’s jobs is to visit the schools attended by our sponsored students. She recently sent back this report after touring the boarding school Rosette attends and speaking with her teachers and headmaster on school visitation day:

Rosette is involved in numerous activities at school, including music, dance, and netball. She often performs or competes (mainly on the evenings or weekends). In addition, Rosette is a member of the ‘Straight Talk’ team, which counsels peers about the importance of sexual abstinence/birth control, healthy relationships, and future decision-making. Only the highest praise and positive comments were issued with regards to Rosette. Rosette displays good discipline within campus, classroom and dormitory. She has very good hygiene and appears “smart” (looks nice) around campus. She has identified certain teachers with whom she can share personal issues, and she is often trying to provide assistance to her peers. Rosette is a dependable helper to many faculty members at the school and is often called upon if a special project needs to be completed. Rosette uses proficient English around campus.

Everyone loves spending time with Rosette. And whenever the team members have the opportunity to watch her practicing yoga, playing sports or singing and dancing, they simply shake their heads and smile. There is something about this young woman that is just kind of breathtaking.

I’m really glad we’ve been able to grant her wish and send her to school.