Jean de Dieu Niyigena
My mother used to lock me out of the house, so I ended up living on the streets.
Then, she died and it is still hard for me to accept that she is no longer alive. I have a father, but he refuses to acknowledge that I am his son. He refuses me. I have one sister named Josie and I love her very much.
I like sports, music, dance and God, but I am afraid of killing. Now, I want to change my story. I want to change the bad part so I can study and become intelligent.
If I had $30 USD, I would pay my school fees in Rwanda so I could go back to study. Then, I can have a happy family one day. When I grow up, I want to become a teacher of dance and a strong, famous dancer in Rwanda. I want to teach children to dance, and then I want my students to become teachers of dance for other children.
Dear Jean De Dieu Niyigena,
My name is Anniyah. I am 8 years old. I go to a school called Universal Institute Charter School. My favorite subjects in school are Math and Reading. I have two brothers. I am the youngest in my family. My neighbors are loving and caring. I live in a small neighbrhood. It has trees all around. I like to dance, make art, and get on the computer.
I chose you because you have a have a cool, crazy, African name. I also chose you because you have a sister. I like that you want to study so you can become intelligent. Why did your mother lock you out of the house? Why did your father refuse to acknowledge that you were his son?
We have lots in common. We both like music and we both like to dance. We also have differences. You like sports and I don’t. You want to teach your children how to dance and I want to teach my children to paint.
From Anniyah
P.S. Have a great Day!
I’ve been following the blog, and thkans for sharing the experience. Catalyst Rwanda has been a wonderful dream and a great success. Congratulations everyone!I’m sure the inspiration and energy will continue and, of course, the dancing
I wanted to thank you for this execllent read!! I definitely enjoyed every little bit of it. I have you bookmarked your site to check out the new stuff you post.
Jean,
I am so inspired by your story. You have overcome so many obstacles in your life. I'm sure that your experience with hardship has made you such a strong young person. It's so wonderful to hear about your determination to get a good education and find valuable work despite the difficulties of your surroundings.
I live in the United States and I am a dedicated supporter of the program that you are a part of in Rwanda. I grew up dancing too and I love it! How have you enjoyed the training and performance opportunities with Rebecca Davis Dance Company? I'm looking forward to learning more about your Program and hearing all about your continued success.
Wishing you all the best,
Irina