I grew up in the hands of a single mother. We went through several challenges together but we have always managed. In 2014, we faced the most challenging part of the year. My mother was bedridden and I had to take care of her at the same time I had to prepare for the end year national examination. We mostly had to depend on the philanthropy of neighbors and a few relatives to survive. I have embraced this as part of life. I will not let it dim my spirit. The School Fund has extended an olive branch to me. A chance to redefine my life and come out of this mire.

Rosa was born in Sofala province. She is a very calm and a smiling girl. She loves to play with her friends of the same age. She is orphaned of father, who died in 2011, victim of illness. He used to do little jobs in the construction field. After her father's death, her mother abandoned the children and disappeared to an uncertain part until today. No one knows if she is alive or not. Rosa went to live with her uncle. His work is helping the fishermen pulling the nets. With the salary he earns, he is not able to sustain all the needs of his family. If the girl will not get support, she will have to stop studying.

My name is Adama Mansaray. I am in grade six. I am 12 years old. I am a Kono by tribe. I am a student of Muddy Lotus Primary School. My best subjects in school are reading and Literature. My favorite game is basketball. In my fun time I play with my younger ones. In the morning before I go to school I sweep, wash plates and say my prayers before I go to school. My favorite food is rice and potato leaves. Rice is our main meal at home. I like helping my mother at home with her domestic work. I hate to see people fighting. I want to be Minister at my old age.

Alexander is a very intelligent boy - the best student in his class. He loves music and is learning to play the guitar. His teacher thinks he is very gifted at it. Alex lives with his parents and a younger brother. His parents are very keen for him to do well and they support him as much as they can. He is very mature for his age and takes life seriously.

I am living with my mother and my 2 brothers. My father works in a quarry in Pambara and he comes home sometimes on weekends or twice a month. My 2 sisters are married and live out of home. Our home has one room where my parents sleep and my brothers and I are sleeping outside in a hut on a mat and we have one old blanket to cover. I spent my childhood in Mangarela where I started school. After the 1st grade, I went to Maputo with my family for 3 years. Once back to Vilankulo, I started grade 1 again. During my free time, I go fishing to help the family and on Sundays, we go to church. My mother goes to the field 4 times a week. I like to play Neca and Football. I am grateful to get a sponsorship, because that will help us a lot.