A Celebration!

 

Friday was graduation, and Saturday was a time for celebration for several privileged young adults throughout Uganda who received diplomas.  We had the honor of attending the graduation party of Robert and Lydia, two Into Your Hands-Africa, Hands of Hope Scholar Students who received their diplomas from Kyotera Vocational Institute.  Robert received his diploma in Business Administration and Planning, Lydia received her diploma in Guidance and Counseling. 

As we celebrated this special day with them, they talked about their plans for the future, how they can possibly make a difference in their communities, and frequently spoke of how grateful they, and their families, are for their sponsors who helped them to achieve this day through their ongoing support.  The community also expressed their appreciation for the support they receive from Into Your Hands.

The party was at Lydia’s home as Robert’s parents were unable to attend due to illness.  He shared with us that his parents were very proud of him but are in the hospital.  We did not ask for him to share the reason on his special day, but only assume it is possibly AIDS – an illness which still impacts much of the Ugandan community and leaves many of the students, our program supports, as orphans. 

However, this day there were no grim faces in the crowd as the whole community joined in the celebration of this joyous occasion – one that is only recognized by a select few who are lucky enough to receive sponsors.  

Dressed in their best second-hand clothes for this special day, look at the faces of Robert and Lydia and imagine being there with them… and with us – truly a Kodak moment! 

 

Kris & Dean