Every child deserves the chance to learn, but for ten-year-old Rishi*, the death of his father meant school was out of reach. With his family struggling to survive on his mother’s small income, education felt like an impossible dream.

Aisha, a 13-year-old girl from Tanzania, had worked hard to earn a place at secondary school but her dreams were threatened by poverty. Hoping to find a new path, she ran away to Dar-es-Salaam, hoping she would be able to get into school and continue her studies.

With her dad gone, her mum struggling to cope, and not enough food in the house, life for Sophie became unbearable. Feeling isolated and desperate, she longed for an escape from the constant worry and loneliness at home.

At 15, Dante was living in a freezing loft with no windows, which made everyday life and school a struggle. Determined to change his future. he made the brave decision to seek support. What followed was a journey full of challenges, resilience and hope.

With her father gone, 11-year-old Saida* was often left alone to look after the home and her younger siblings while her mother worked long hours. There was never enough to eat and she was often scolded for not completing her chores.

Kaafi was sent to the city to earn money, but instead, he was exploited and left to survive on the streets. Alone and vulnerable, he faced daily dangers until someone stepped in to offer him safety.

At just 10 years old, Safara was sent far from home to work as a domestic helper, believing it would help support her family. But when she lost her employer's contact details on the long journey, she suddenly found herself alone in a busy city.

Darcy was 14 when she ran away from home. As the arguments turned to fights and tensions over money escalated, she felt scared and as though she was part of the problem. She boarded a train and ended up lost and alone.

This inspiring 21-year-old went from hopeless to hopeful thanks to the skills and support she received through our Youth Association programme.