I have learned, I’m special

Monda is a12 year old beautiful blonde girl, with blue eyes and a big smile. She loves school and tries hard to have good results. She lives with her parents, with her sister and brother. The family lives in a rural low-income area of Durres. She was born with disabilities, vision impairment. She can’t see with one of her eyes. For this reason she has been an isolated child, as she felt different from others.

“I was afraid to talk, I was afraid to show up. I thought everybody was looking at and judging me for who I am,” says Monda.

From two years now, she has been part of the Sponsorship programme. She and her sponsor have a very special relationship. Her sponsor keeps encouraging Monda that she is special and her disability can be an opportunity. “My friend in the U.S. was the first one who told me that I’m special, and I started to believe I am so,” says Monda, smiling.

Last year Monda has been involved in the Child Protection (CP) group of her area. Together with other tens of children they learn about their rights, protection system, how to raise the voice and other topics, which have helped Monda feel empowered and more confident.

“Now I can stand in front of people and talk. I’m not afraid anymore to talk about discrimination,” says Monda, who has participated in many activities, like “I protect children”, summer camps and other activities in and out of the school.

“My biggest dreams are to continue higher education and to always protect people and help them to enjoy their rights and feel special” concludes Monda.