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MELVINA: S252-SEC

November

2024

Melvina is thriving in school, and her journey has been nothing short of inspiring. Now in the sixth grade, she has truly blossomed into a hardworking and determined student. After Girl Power Africa had an important discussion with her mother about the importance of her education, her mother has completely transformed her approach and now fully supports Melvina’s schooling. This change has given Melvina the chance to attend school regularly, and she has made the most of it. English is her favorite subject, and she excels in it. But Melvina’s day is filled with more than just studying. In the mornings, she goes to school, and after classes, she heads straight to the market. There, she buys food for the family, takes it home, and prepares meals. She also draws about 15 gallons of water from the well, helps with cleaning, and takes care of other household chores. Only after all of this does she sit down to do her homework. Despite the long and busy days, Melvina remains focused and dedicated to her studies. She has transformed into a beautiful, hardworking student who is a true example of perseverance and strength. We’re so proud of how far she has come and look forward to seeing all the amazing things she’ll continue to achieve Sponsored by: Kathryn O’Rourke

November

2023

Melvina has advanced to the fifth grade, earning recognition from her teacher for her keen intellect and attention to detail in the classroom. Melvina demonstrates a remarkable level of wisdom beyond her years.

Outside of academics, Melvina’s passion for cooking remains undiminished, with Liberian Cassava Leaf soup holding a special place as one of her favorite things to cook. Cassava Leaf soup is a traditional West African dish made from the leaves of the cassava plant, which are finely chopped and cooked with a flavorful blend of spices, meats, and vegetables. To prepare this dish, one would typically start by boiling the cassava leaves until tender, then sautéing them with ingredients such as onions, peppers, and palm oil, before adding meats such as chicken, fish, or beef, and allowing the flavors to meld together to create a rich and savory stew.

Residing with her mother, Melvina nurtures her aspiration of becoming a cook, aspiring to share her culinary talents with others and make a meaningful impact through her culinary creations. Her dedication to her dreams serves as an inspiration to those around her, showcasing the power of passion and perseverance in the pursuit of one’s goals. Sponsored by: Kathryn O’Rourke

October

2022

Melvina was promoted into the 4th grade and has been re-enrolled into school for the 2022/2023 school year. During our interview, she was very grateful for this opportunity. She said “tell my sponsors I said thank you. They’ve changed my life”. She also mentioned that school is the best part of her day. She still wants to be a cook when she grows up and she continues to live with her mother. Sponsored by: Kathryn O’Rourke

October 2019

2019

Thanks to the generous donation from Rebecca Knutson, Melvina has been re-enrolled into school for the 2019/2020 school year. 

June 2019

We are pleased to announce that Melvina was promoted to the 2nd grade for the 2018/2019 school year. Katy Anderson, thank you for your sponsorship and giving your student a gift of education through Girl Power Africa.

September

2018

Meet Melvina, who has been generously sponsored by Katy Anderson. She is 12 years old and in the 1st grade this year. Melvina lives in Seclepea, Liberia with her widow mother. Since the death of her father 3 years ago, Melvina’s mother has been unable to afford to support she and her 3 children. Her interests are helping her mom to take care of her siblings, cook, and clean and she hopes to be a cook when she grows up.

Photos of Melvina Throughout The School Years: