🌼My Memorable Encounter with Brave Hearts Ethiopia🌼
by Nadia Waber
September 26, 2019
'What is development?' I have often asked myself. I am learning that unless we work on our values, intentions, culture (interior elements of our beings), we cannot initiative sustainable change in our communities.
This past Monday, I spent an afternoon with the children of Brave Hearts Ethiopia, and I was blown away by the little miracles I witnessed, starting from being with confident, lively, bright-eyed humorous children who are so clear about what they want to do in the future, enjoy studying and exploring academics, look after peers in the name of community, and are literally turning around their lives and destinies, as they are growing up without biological mothers and fathers.
At Brave Hearts, the partnership with the children is systemic, with the communities raising them, and done in a committed and transparent manner. So many of these young ones are joining universities, graduating successfully, and getting jobs. No wonder: I don't recall the age, but it must a 7 year old saying he wishes to be a Prime Minister one day! So watch this space…
And I met young ones dreaming to be pilots, doctors, civil engineers and more.
So much mammoth work is being carried out, including soft skills training, tutoring (the books collected have created an impressive library), providing health support and character development. At BHE there is a strong commitment to grow emotionally whole young people who have a heart to giving back. One of them, who is now a successful chef, comes back to contribute through his culinary skills whenever he can. What a positive culture is being created!
So development for me includes looking around us to ensure that nobody is left behind, and giving space for all young ones to have a dignified and fair start to life. Love and support can be a catalyst for results you can't even imagine.
Kudos to humble and visionary Mimi K Tilahun and team for this inspiring work, in spite of the daily challenges and obstacles. Thank you for the warm welcome. The singing of the children is still ringing in my ears.
I encourage you to visit and support this great work. We can all make a difference.
Nadia Waber is an inspirational mum, trainer, coach and facilitator in the areas of communication skills, leadership and management and we are touched by her support and encouragement of our work. Nadia visited the BHE drop-in center and spent time with the children in our program in September 2019. BHE staff were delighted to see how openly the youth shared their personal stories and experiences. The children also prepared songs and had a joyous time.