Reflection of a father

My name is Mungunshagai, and I am 34 years old. My wife, Sumiya, is 32 years old, and together, we have a beautiful daughter named Gereltseteg. Our journey with World Vision’s Graduation Approach in 2023 has been nothing short of transformative.

Before joining World Vision, we struggled to find stable employment. Often, we had to borrow equipment to complete our work in interior building repairs and painting. However, with the support of World Vision, we received the necessary equipment to pursue our livelihoods more independently. This boost in resources significantly increased our productivity and income, providing us with a newfound sense of stability and confidence.

Now, I am involved in creating various welded products such as metal doors, fences, and stoves. Additionally, I have expanded my skill set to include crafting wooden products like chairs, tables, and cabinets, building upon my existing abilities. The series of training sessions provided by World Vision broadened our horizons, covering topics such as financial management, family values, and the heartwarming atmosphere of Celebrating Families.

Among these sessions, the Celebrating Families training stood out the most. We were divided into small teams and tasked with creating short dramas that depicted the mutual respect and love between couples, as well as the importance of nurturing relationships with our children. Through this exercise, we gained valuable insights into effective communication and conflict resolution within our family unit.

Previously, like many couples, we faced challenges and misunderstandings, especially concerning our daughter's education. However, thanks to the Celebrating Families training, our attitudes towards each other and our daughter shifted positively. We became more open and understanding, fostering a sense of peace within our home.

One particularly memorable moment was when the facilitator encouraged us to write letters to our partners during the session. Upon returning home and reading the heartfelt letter from my wife, I was overwhelmed with a deep sense of love and appreciation.

Following the training, we decided to officially register our marriage. World Vision's support extended to organising a Marriage Celebration event, where we exchanged vows and became officially recognised as a married couple under the law. The experience was unforgettable, symbolising a new chapter of commitment and unity for our family.

In addition to our personal growth, we are committed to giving back to our community. We have joined a Savings Group within our community, with my wife serving as the secretary. As we embark on our second year of saving, we are confident that we will continue to thrive, contributing positively to our community while providing a nurturing environment for our daughter to learn and grow.