It fills all of us at Brave Hearts Ethiopia with immense joy as Lemma begins university. A student with special needs, Lemma graduated high school earlier this year with outstanding grades and a determination to pursue his tertiary education. Lemma is an intelligent young man with cerebral palsy and a difficult past but his efforts have provided him with a shining future!
After joining BHE in 2014, Lemma was provided with holistic care and regular counseling to help him overcome his childhood trauma. His special needs have and continue to be fully catered to, ensuring that they do not provide a barrier to his education.
Brave Hearts also supported Lemma in successfully reuniting him with his family three years ago. Lemma and his father, who was previously unable to take care of him, are both overjoyed to have each other back in their lives. Lemma’s dad now takes care of his needs at home including cooking and supporting Lemma in his mobility both within and outside their home.
Lemma was fortunate enough to attend a private school where he received quality education and thrived in the academically-stimulating and supportive environment. He excelled in high school as a scholarship student. During his schooling, Lemma was awarded prizes for his incredible performance in academic competitions.
Furthermore, Lemma worked hard to overcome the additional challenges presented by the Coronavirus pandemic. “I spent the pandemic studying and gave full attention to the subjects I struggled with, which helped me achieve the results I wanted in the national exam,” Lemma shared.
His dad beamed with pride as he attended Lemma’s graduation ceremony at his high school. The other Brave Hearts’ children and staff also celebrated with Lemma and took pictures with him in his graduation gown. Lemma’s loving nature and infectious happiness make him an amazing member within the BHE family.
In June, we held an award ceremony at the BHE center for all of the children who scored outstanding grades in the academic year. Four of our students ranked 1st in their year level and another five were ranked within the top ten in their year. This made us extremely proud to witness. Lemma is an incredible role model for these younger students. His success proves the merits of unrivaled dedication and inspires them to strive to fulfill their full potential.
Lemma started university with a big smile on his first day. “I met new people who have been extremely helpful and friendly. They help me move around the university campus with ease” Lemma stated.
After his first year, Lemma will be able to choose a specific field he wants to study. Lemma aspires to become a software engineer. He has come a long way and all of us at Brave Hearts Ethiopia are unbelievably proud of his journey and achievements. Lemma continues to serve as an example for all of us, as well as a mentor who gives advice to our younger members at BHE. “I am forever grateful for my Brave Hearts family and their continuous support.”
