[Guest post by Carolyn Edlebeck, Ugandan Volunteer Coordinator for Arlington Academy of Hope]
Girls study at the Arlington Academy of Hope
Ameria is a 15-year-old girl in Primary 7 who has earned the top spot in academics for her class. She is active in the music program, and loves to study. Ameria has dedicated herself to achieving the best education possible, and has received much in return.
Before she attended AAH, she attended a public school in Manafwa, in a district a few hours away. She spoke almost no English, though now she calls English her favorite subject. “That school was fair,” Ameria said. “But sometimes the teachers can’t teach.”
In order to attend AAH, Ameria has to live with her uncle in the area. Her mother is a farmer and her father is a policeman in Kampala. Her mother manages a household of 7 children, cooking, cleaning, and fetching water. Ameria misses her family but enjoys living with her uncle. She gets to see her siblings on school holidays when she is not working on music for AAH.
Her favorite thing about Arlington is the books. “They help me to read and learn. They teach me about the world and answer my questions,” she said.
She hopes to give back to her community by becoming a doctor. Ameria’s hopes and aspirations are fueled by her experiences at AAH and the dedicated teaching staff.
“Before I came to AAH I didn’t speak much English and now I can speak very well. AAH has helped me get a future, to help myself and my family.”
