Change the Story. Break the Cycle. Change the World.

 “If you educate a man, you educate an individual. But if you educate a woman, you educate a nation.”

– African Proverb

The school year here in Ecuador just ended, which brought with it celebrations, school events, graduations, and award season.  There were many things our girls at Ecuador Hope House accomplished this year, but two, in particular, stood out to me.  

First, three of our girls graduated high school!!  They finished!  The most recent statistics tell us that in Ecuador, only 46% of children have the opportunity to attend secondary school in indigenous communities.  This number is no doubt much lower for girls. 

One of the great things about Ecuador Hope House is that every girl gets the opportunity to pour all of her energy into her schooling.  They are able to fully take advantage of being one of the few who will not only have the opportunity to attend secondary school, but also finish!!  

Second, one of our girls finished the year with scores at the top of her class!!  When I heard the announcement and watched her walk up to receive the award, I nearly fell out of my chair.  It wasn’t that I was surprised, because this girl is smart!  I think I was just amazed, proud, and bursting with joy on her behalf.  There she was, showing the world what happens when you give a girl the freedom and opportunity to learn, to shine, and to beat the odds!

Our province has the highest number of mothers under the age of 12 in the country.  Girls are often forced to marry between the ages of 11-13.  At Ecuador Hope House, we are trying to change the story.  We are trying to break the cycle.  And we are trying to change the world, one girl at a time. 

“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.”  -Nelson Mandela