Sixteen years ago, a young girl named Isata spent her days helping her mother sell charcoal to support their family. School was not an option. Her mother, a hardworking single parent, simply could not afford the cost of education.

In 2010, everything changed.

Through the generosity of Develop Africa supporters and GlobalGiving donors, Isata was enrolled in school and given the opportunity every child deserves—the chance to learn, grow, and dream.

At the time, Isata shared these words:

"I am very grateful to GlobalGiving and Develop Africa for giving me the opportunity to go to school. My mother is a poor single parent hawking charcoal for our survival. She could not afford to send me to school. I was out of school helping her sell charcoal until I met the representative of Develop Africa, who helped enroll me into school. I promise to work hard and excel in school so that I in turn will be able to help less fortunate children like me. GlobalGiving donors, thank you very much. You have given me hope and a future."

Today, 16 years later, we are proud to share that Isata has become one of Develop Africa's success stories.

While her journey was not always easy, Isata never gave up. She hoped to continue her education at the university level and worked hard toward that goal. After several attempts to pass the WASSCE examination, she made a courageous decision to pursue vocational training in cosmetology and hairdressing.

That decision opened a new door.

Isata recently completed her cosmetology training and graduated successfully. She now has valuable skills that can help her secure employment, earn an income, and potentially start her own business.

Her story is a powerful reminder that success is not defined by a single path. Sometimes success means adapting, persevering, and finding new opportunities when obstacles arise. What matters most is continuing to move forward.

When Develop Africa first met Isata, she was a young girl selling charcoal instead of attending school. Today, she is a trained professional equipped with skills that can help her build an independent future.

This transformation would not have been possible without the faithful support of donors who believed in her potential long before they knew how her story would unfold.

Thank you for investing in Isata's future and the futures of countless other children over the years. Your support has helped turn hope into opportunity, opportunity into education, and education into a brighter future.

Isata's journey is proof that when we invest in a child, we invest in a lifetime of possibilities.  Learn how you can be part of a success story like Isata's.