Meet Felix, a 12-year-old boy who lives in Rubavu, Rwanda. Felix loves school. He loves his teachers, his classmates, and most of all, the opportunity to dream about his big, bright future. 

But, like many children in rural Rwanda, Felix’s childhood hasn’t been easy. For his single mother, who never had the opportunity to go to school herself, it’s a challenge to make ends meet. Felix’s family, like so many others in the area, has to make difficult choices every day. His mother depends on Felix and Grace to help at home, and sometimes that responsibility conflicts with school.

One day, Felix’s mother asked him to stay home to care for his baby sister while she went to the market with Grace to sell sugar cane. But Felix, desperate not to miss a day of school, found himself at a crossroads. He knew how quickly one missed day could lead to dropping out—he’d watched Grace go through the same thing. Determined not to give up on his future, Felix made a bold decision.

He secured his baby sister to his back and piggybacked her to school.

Finding Support at School

When Felix arrived, he went straight to his Head Teacher, knowing he would find the help he needed. 

Just a few years ago, this type of support might have seemed impossible. Many children in Felix’s school—and across rural Rwanda—used to fear their teachers. Seeking help, especially for a family matter, would have been unthinkable.

But thankfully, Felix never knew his school like that. To him, school has always felt like a safe, supportive space. Felix attends school in Rwanda’s Rubavu District, which has been working with Wellspring since 2017. Through training and mentorship, teachers learned to create fun, engaging classrooms where children like Felix don’t just attend school—they thrive.

Thanks to Wellspring’s training, the school staff were equipped with the skills to respond with care when Felix needed it most. They took care of his baby sister so Felix could join his classmates exactly as he was meant to—as a child full of dreams, eager to learn.

Inspiring the Whole Community

Felix’s journey didn’t end with that one school day. Wellspring’s support extends beyond the classroom, impacting families and entire communities. Felix’s school, already in touch with his mother, had been providing him with essentials like a uniform and school supplies. But after Felix’s brave act, they realized they could do even more. With Wellspring’s support, they reached out to help Felix’s mother understand just how vital education is for her children’s future and what she can do to support their success, both at school and at home. 

Reflecting on her own childhood, Felix’s mother shared, “I regret not going to school myself, but I won’t let my children grow up illiterate like me. I am so grateful for the support that has helped my children continue their education.”

Inspired by Felix’s resilience and their mother’s encouragement, Grace made the decision to return to school as well. Her teachers welcomed her with open arms, providing her with a uniform and school supplies to make her transition easier. Now, she is thriving in class and even helping other students return to school, sharing her own story to encourage them not to give up on their futures. 

Even Felix’s Head Teacher was inspired! Recognizing a teachable moment, he gathered the students to share Felix’s bravery and reminded them that, no matter the challenges they face, they can rely on their school community for help. With their teachers and classmates in their corner, they never have to feel alone.

Breaking Down Barriers to Education

In Rwanda, 1 in 4 children drop out before finishing primary school, often to help support their families—just like Grace. Without an education, many children in Rwanda will be trapped in the cycle of poverty, missing out on the chance to pursue their dreams. 

But, when teachers, leaders, and parents rally around children, just like they did with Felix and Grace, something extraordinary happens—these barriers to education start to disappear. Wellspring’s support extends beyond the classroom, empowering leaders to advocate for every child’s potential, training teachers to create engaging, joy-filled classrooms, and helping parents understand their vital role in their children’s education. 

This ecosystem of support is helping children realize their dreams and break the cycle of poverty. Education becomes more than classroom learning—it becomes the foundation for a brighter future, not just for Felix and Grace, but for their entire community.

Will You Act Boldly for Children’s Futures?

Felix’s story is a testament to the difference that one bold decision and a supportive school community can make in a child’s life. But there are still so many students in Rwanda who deserve the same opportunity to thrive.

Like Felix, will you act boldly today to support quality education for children in Rwanda?

Every gift you make today is matched dollar-for-dollar, up to $65,000. Your generosity directly impacts children like Felix and Grace, equipping them with the life-changing quality education they deserve. With your support, they can dream big, pursue their God-given potential, and become changemakers that build brighter futures for generations to come.