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How Ratifah Found Her Voice
When Ratifah entered Hope Alive!, she was so paralyzed by shyness that she could barely talk. And then she learned to sing!
Ratifah lives in Kyabakuza with her mother, who supports their family by selling tomatoes and other food at a small stall. Ratifah is a bright and gifted student, but she struggled with something that couldn’t be measured by grades—her confidence.
Ratifah was painfully shy, unable to speak even in a small group. Singing during worship time was out of the question, and she hesitated to join in other activities. Undeterred, Hope Alive! mentors saw her potential, and during Saturday Club they gently encouraged her to step out of her comfort zone.
Saturday Club is a big part of the Hope Alive! difference. Each site hosts Saturday Club three times a month, with student-led singing and worship, Bible study, community-building activities and a nutritious meal. Importantly, it’s a time for mentors to get to know their students better, and to challenge them to try new things, build confidence and develop their leadership skills.
At first, mentors hesitated to give Ratifah any responsibilities during Saturday Club, knowing how shy she was. But with time, patience, and the mentors’ continuous encouragement, Ratifah’s confidence grew.
At first, mentors hesitated to give Ratifah any responsibilities during Saturday Club, knowing how shy she was. But with time, patience, and the mentors’ continuous encouragement, Ratifah’s confidence grew.
Gradually she started participating more, and then something incredible happened—Ratifah discovered she could sing! She bravely stepped into a leadership role in praise and worship. During Hope Alive!’s 2024 Christmas party at her site, she led praise and worship in front of a crowd. Afterward, she excitedly told a friend, “I didn’t know that I could sing and make it! I had feared, but I finally made it. I thank God so much.”
Today, Ratifah is an all-around student, thriving not just academically but in confidence and leadership. Her journey is a testament to how encouragement, loving mentorship, and the right opportunities can transform a child’s future.
Fragile Families Flourishing in the Hope of Jesus!
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