Shirleen’s in Grade 10!

Village of Love Canada followers might recall a feature we did on Shirleen when she was in Grade 6 and looking forward to joining Junior Secondary.

We marvelled at how Shirleen had overcome challenging odds—abandoned by her mother and then by her father, who succumbed to alcohol abuse. She often went hungry and missed a whole year of studies.

Shirleen's grandmother, Wilimina, took her in and brought her into the Kijiji Cha Upendo program. The bright young student received educational support and never missed a day of school! As the video shows, Shirleen has continued her studies and is now in Grade 10.

In the video, Shirleen speaks to how she and other children are supported in their education.

Shirleen refers to the benefits of the lending library and holiday program. Leonora Obara, Co-Founder of Kijiji Cha Upendo, has just sent us a report covering May through August of 2026. She reports enthusiastically on an expanded holiday program this season in which 76 children participated. Moses, “Kijiji’s” Field Coordinator, ran the program and included peer-to-peer teaching between age groups. A program highlight was its focus on digital learning. This is especially helpful for children who may not have access to technology or digital learning at home. Leonora notes that 87 percent of the children reported increased confidence using digital learning resources.

Success stories like these are possible due to ongoing support. If you are an occasional supporter of Village of Love Canada, would you consider becoming a monthly supporter? Monthly giving helps "Kijiji" support young people like Shirleen and plan for improved summer programs like the one described.

Our GIVE page has instructions on becoming a monthly giver. You set the amount. We promise that 95 percent of your gift will go to the field, with the other five percent used to cover admin costs and support more fundraising.

Video credit: Sophie Anyango