Happy Child International has a passion to make a positive impact on vulnerable children and young people’s lives. Our vision is a world where every child and young person realises their full potential in a safe, secure environment. We collaborate with partner projects in Brazil who provide education and opportunities, care for families
and protection against violence. One of our partner projects, Instituto Solidare, is helping Debora prepare for future employment. This is her story:
My family
My name is Debora. I am 19 years old and I’m adopted. My Mum died when I was 12 and its been tough without her. I live in Jabotao dos Guarapas, Recife, Northeast Brazil. I have 5 brothers and 5 sisters. I’am the only one who isn’t married or with children.
Hope for the future
In my community the biggest challenges are a lack of hope for the future and a kind of inertia. I know a few girls my own age and they are already mums. They didn’t even want to finish their schooling. My Dad is a machine operator at Gerdau iron and steel plant. He is my inspiration.
Observing the other girls in my neighbourhood and my brothers at home means i feel a duty to make my dad proud of me. He told me about Alvo Certo (the Mentoring and Training Skills project). With his encouragement I applied and got a place.
There were 250 applications for just 40 trainees. I need to break the cycle of having no aspiration in life and no profession. The project has given me direction. Its teaching me skills and helping me reflect on my own personal development. A weekly work experience placement at Gerdau has been invaluable, helping me apply the skills I am learning. Completing the project gives me the chance to become a paid apprentice at Gerdau and if I pass through their selection. I am excited about that and my future now.
Happy Child Christmas Campaign – How you can help