A heated argument with her older sister rattled Tulu’s heart.
Despite serious hardships — including family health struggles, low income, and hunger — Tulu’s own short outburst bothered her deeply. She didn’t want to turn her stress into anger against those she loves.
Quickly, she and her sister reconciled, and Tulu determined to try to act happier. But true happiness seemed unobtainable.
Her father has an illness he still hasn’t healed from. Tulu told our team in Ethiopia that she prays for his healing every day. Tulu’s mother is the family’s sole provider, but work opportunities are hard to find. The family often has to skip meals because they simply can’t afford food.
Though Tulu is only in the fifth grade, she already grapples with the realities of instability. But that is beginning to change.
Tulu’s school has partnered with Convoy’s Children’s Feeding program to bring consistent nutrition during her studies. The hearty food is fueling Tulu’s body and mind. Today, instead of attempting to just appear polite or happy, Tulu can feel real contentment. With that foundation of nourishment, her smiles are growing. She’s started learning faster, laughing more, and dreaming bigger dreams for herself.
Tulu’s mother enrolled in local training with Convoy of Hope’s Women’s Empowerment program. The lessons she learned there — on building confidence, developing her own business, and recognizing her worth — began to saturate their home life. Her mother’s example instilled a new hope in Tulu for the future.
Today, Tulu pictures becoming a doctor. She sees herself achieving her goals and helping her family one day have the things they’ve had to go without. The time she spends with her friends and her sister is starting to feel carefree again.
Without feeling trapped by hardships, Tulu is equipped to nurture her future vision — and the caring friendships that every childhood should include.
