MARIE: S434-SAN

Marie is repeating the 10th grade again this year after her school conducted a reassessment of students and determined that she would benefit from additional time to strengthen her academic foundation before advancing to the 11th grade. As she prepares for the critical years ahead — especially with hopes of attending college one day,  this extra year is intended to help ensure she is fully prepared and confident moving forward. Although repeating the grade was disappointing, Marie understands the importance of building a strong foundation. She remains determined to improve and is committed to doing better this year. Her resilience continues to shine, especially considering the many challenges she faces outside the classroom. During the program this year, we witnessed firsthand the discrimination Marie still endures as an albino student. Some students began teasing her and calling her names. Marie came to our team in tears, bravely explaining what had happened. Immediate action was taken. The students involved were given strong warnings and reminded that Girl Power Africa has zero tolerance for bullying of any kind. We held a group discussion emphasizing that we are leaders, role models, and example-setters in our communities. Respect, dignity, and protection for one another are non-negotiable within our program. Marie’s courage in speaking up was powerful. Despite the hurtful words, she continues to carry herself with strength. She remains a serious student who wants to succeed. Her identity does not define her limitations — it highlights her resilience. At home, Marie still carries heavy responsibilities. She continues to cook for her family, draw water from the creek, purchase food from the market, and manage household duties before focusing on her studies. The demands placed on her would overwhelm many, yet she keeps going. Marie’s journey is not easy, but her determination is undeniable. She is pressing forward with hope, maturity, and a growing confidence that she deserves to be respected and valued. We are proud of her bravery, her perseverance, and her commitment to her education. 

Sponsored by: Jennifer Suda

Marie is repeating the 10th grade this year after having to drop out last year to care for her sick mother. Despite these challenges, Marie has shown incredible resilience. English is her favorite subject this year, and she is very grateful for the opportunity to continue her studies. At home, Marie takes on the responsibility of cooking for the family. After school, she draws water from the creek, buys food at the market, and then prepares the meal before the family eats. From the moment she wakes up until late afternoon, she often goes without food herself due to the difficulties at home, but she remains grateful and hardworking. Being an albino student, Marie has faced a lot of challenges. Albinos in Liberia are often mocked and teased, and many people view them as abnormal. However, thanks to the support from Girl Power Africa, Marie’s confidence has grown tremendously. Her self-esteem is at an all-time high, and she is now highly respected at her school. In fact, this year, she was voted class president by her peers, a clear testament to the admiration and respect she has earned. Despite all the obstacles in her way, Marie continues to rise, determined to succeed and make the most of every opportunity. Sponsored by: Jennifer Suda

Marie has been promoted to the tenth grade! At 18 years old, she is thrilled that graduation is nearing. As one of the first people in her family to have reached this level of education, Marie is incredibly proud of herself and deeply grateful for the opportunity to attend school through Girl Power Africa’s scholarship. She extends her heartfelt gratitude to her sponsor for being her hope and motivation. Marie continues to dream of becoming an inventor one day, driven by her creativity and ambition. She continues to live with her mother. Sponsored by: Jennifer Suda

Seventeen-year-old Marie was promoted to 9th grade!  She is looking forward to completing ninth grade and entering high school next year.  Her favorite subject is language arts and her teacher reports she is a role model to her classmates and has a great attitude. She still wants to be an inventor and enjoys singing in the church choir.  Sponsored by: Jenny Suda

Meet Marie, who has been generously sponsored by Jenny Suda. She is 14 years old and is in the 6th grade this year. Marie lives in Sanniquellie, Liberia with her mother.  Marie is an albino child who was disowned by her father at birth. Sadly, parents and communities often abandon albino children. Fortunately, her mother is unashamed and very proud of her daughter. Although, she is an unemployed single mother who is struggling to find food for her and her children on a daily basis.  Marie hopes to be an inventor when she grows up.