When an opportunity becomes hope

Interestingly, her interest in English began precisely because it was the subject she found most difficult. From then on, she never missed a single class. Her enthusiasm, curiosity, and desire to learn were evident at every meeting. She listened attentively, asked questions, and took advantage of every opportunity to learn something new.

Her great dream was to continue her university studies in Information Technology. But her family’s difficult economic circumstances could have prevented her from making that dream a reality.

She grew up in a large family, with seven sisters and one brother. Her mother always believed deeply in the importance of educating her daughters and, despite the difficulties, did everything possible to ensure that they could continue their studies. She spent long hours embroidering to help support the family and make it possible for her daughters to stay in school. There were years when her father was unable to find work, and much of the responsibility for supporting the family fell on her shoulders.

Our young friend, however, never stopped believing in her dream. She knew that education could open new paths and offer a better future—not only for herself, but also for her family and her community.

Thanks to the generosity of those who support us, we were able to accompany her for several years through a scholarship.

The fruit of perseverance

Today, with great joy and emotion, we see the fruits of that journey we shared.

She has graduated in Information Technology from Al-Quds University, standing out among the brightest students of her graduating class. On graduation day, she also had the honour of delivering the speech on behalf of her entire class.

She began by giving thanks to God: “Praise be to God, for by His grace beautiful things come to pass. He has transformed patience into joy and effort into success.”

Her words, filled with gratitude, express much more than the joy of reaching a goal. They speak of a journey marked by effort, perseverance, and hope.

Every day, she travelled from her village to the university, taking more than one bus and facing long distances, traffic, and many difficulties just to attend her classes. Meanwhile, her mother continued tirelessly embroidering to support the family and make it possible for her daughters to continue their education.

Today, in that diploma, we see the fruit of so many sacrifices, of great perseverance, and of a hope that never gave up.

An opportunity that multiplies

But the story does not end with graduation.

When she received our support, she promised that one day she would share with others what she had received. Today, she is fulfilling that promise.

In September, she will begin a course in Computer Science and Entrepreneurship for Bedouin women from different villages, putting her knowledge at the service of other women and helping them discover new possibilities for their future.

The young woman who once received an opportunity is now ready to offer one to others.

This is how solidarity bears fruit: an opportunity becomes an achievement, the achievement turns into gratitude, and gratitude becomes new opportunities. A seed has borne fruit, and today that fruit becomes a seed once again, continuing to sow hope in the lives of other women.

Sr Cecilia Sierra
Comboni Missionary Sister in the West Bank