When I first walked into ElShaddai Refugee Learning Centre, I was a student full of hope,fear, and big dreams that I was even scared to say out loud. I was a young refugee looking for education and also for a place where I could feel safe and accepted. What I found was not just a school; it became my second home, a caring family, and a place that helped shape who I am today.
At ElShaddai, I completed my IGCSE studies with the help of amazing teachers who supported me in every challenge and celebrated every success with me, teachers like Mrs. Lee, Mr. Lee, Mr. Moses, Mr. Lim, Mr. Weng Choh, Ms. Tracy, and Mr. Faith. I apologize if I missed any teachers, but I am grateful to all of them. The classrooms were more than just places to study. They were places where I grew in confidence, faith, and self-belief. I learned to be strong, to work hard, and to dream big. My heartfelt gratitude for my journey at Elshaddai Refugee Learning Centre.
Finishing my IGCSE was a milestone, but what happened next became one of the most meaningful parts of my journey. I returned, not as a student, but as a teacher in the Accelerated Learning Program (ALP) of ElShaddai. I began teaching with A1, guiding young learners just like I once was. Over time, I also taught A3 and A4, each class adding a new chapter to my story. Teaching wasn’t just a job; it made me happy. I enjoyed every school trip, potluck, and class party. We laughed, shared meals, and created meaningful memories. The bond between teachers and students made us feel like one big family.
From sitting in the back of the classroom as a student to standing at the front as a teacher, my journey came full circle. I taught, but I also continued learning about patience, leadership, empathy, and the powerful impact of education and community.
None of this would have been possible without the people who believed in me, lifted me up, and guided me along the way. To the ElShaddai organization, Mr. Andrew, and Dr. Oi Leng, thank you for opening doors for countless students like me and for planting seeds of hope where they were once scarce.
To my principal, Ms. Ajunta, you were more than a leader; you were like a mentor and a caring guardian. You didn’t just lead; you inspired. You always prayed for me and even prayed with me when I was worried. You checked on me, encouraged me, and trusted me. Your kindness and belief in me helped me grow stronger and become more confident. Because of you, I carry not just skills, but courage, kindness, and the reminder that true leadership is rooted in compassion.
Today, I am writing this chapter of my life from the United States, where I am now a first-year pre-med student in college. In every presentation I deliver, every group discussion I join, every challenge I face, I do so with confidence, built on the foundation ElShaddai gave me. My communication skills, academic discipline, and sense of community were all shaped through the time I spent at school, both as a learner and a teacher. The values I gained there continue to guide me every single day as I chase my dream of serving others in the medical field.
I miss everyone at ElShaddai so much, and I hope to visit one day. No matter where I go, ElShaddai will always feel like home to me. I am deeply grateful to everyone who stood by me on this journey. ElShaddai did not just educate me; it raised me, supported me, and gave me a purpose. I carry all the memories in my heart and will always be grateful. My journey at ElShaddai started with learning, blossomed into teaching, and will continue to live on through every life I hope to inspire in the future.
Thank you, ElShaddai, for turning my dreams into reality and for showing me that someone who once needed guidance can one day become a guiding light for others.
