Naomi's Story

Grace Ernst, a U.S. university student interning for Hope Alive! during the spring semester of 2022, shares her experiences meeting Hope Alive! alumni. 

Not far from the Koro site lives a former Hope Alive! student named Naomi (not her real name). She is a shining example of success and the potential that the children of Hope Alive! have when they take their sponsorship and education seriously. Her story brings hope, and she continues to be a good example for the local children. 

In 2007, Naomi was in Primary 4 and was given the opportunity to become a sponsored Hope Alive! child. She continued in the program until 2021. She studied diligently, and after graduating from high school, she went on to complete nursing courses. During her main schooling, she fell in love with a boy. She remained focused and did not allow the relationship to impact her studies. Once she graduated from high school, they married. He helped support her through her nursing courses. When we asked Naomi what benefits Hope Alive! afforded her, she said, “There are so many!” She then explained how, through the program, she was given the discipleship she needed to grow in all areas. Spiritually, she was provided with the word of God and came to know Christ as her Savior. She was also taught how to be responsible with the resources she had been given.     

After graduating from the nursing program, Naomi worked in a pharmacy for four months before she decided to begin working with her husband at his small business. She hopes to raise enough money to start her own pharmacy or begin working at a hospital; she is still waiting for her license to be processed. Through her nursing courses, she was able to gain first-hand experience; she saw the realities that many young girls face. HIV is a large concern as well as teenage pregnancy. Since she remains in contact with some of the younger Hope Alive! girls, she is able to be another influence that steers them toward a bright future. We are grateful for her perseverance and the positive impact she has had within her community at large. During our time together, it was so evident how God has worked and is continuing to work through her life.