Urielle: A Bright Future Filled with Dreams and Determination

Urielle, a spirited 20-year-old from the Central African Republic, embodies resilience and ambition. Born with vision impairment, she lost her sight at the tender age of three. Despite this challenging circumstance, URIelle remains an inspiring figure who has harnessed education to pursue her dreams. In her class, she can often be found captivated by the intricate patterns of braille dots on the pages before her.

Urielle recalls how her parents instilled in her the values of independence and hard work from an early age. "I lost my sight at three, but that never discouraged me. My parents taught me the importance of perseverance and following my dreams," she reflects as she sits in the Training Center supported by Education Cannot Wait, designed specifically for children with visual impairments.

Since joining this UNICEF-supported center in Bangui, Urielle and her peers have gained access to quality education, which many of them had never experienced before. The center offers specialized teaching methods, allowing students to learn braille and other essential skills that align with the national curriculum. Each morning, a special tuk-tuk arrives to take Urielle to school, where she learns alongside both visually impaired and sighted teachers, all dedicated to using braille educational materials.

In this supportive environment, Urielle has developed a passion for social studies, enjoying stories of diverse cultures and the human experience. Yet, her academic journey has not been without obstacles. She candidly shares her encounters with stigma, recalling how some neighbors and even relatives doubted her capabilities. "Some told me I was useless and better suited for housework than school. But my parents' unwavering support helped me ignore those voices," Urielle asserts.

While striving to excel in her studies, she is not only focused on achieving academic success but also dreams of becoming a professional journalist. "The more I learn, the more stories I want to share with the world. I am determined to become a journalist," she declares confidently. Her aspirations are wide-ranging, encompassing desires to compete as a Paralympian in long-distance running, practicing three times a week in preparation.

Urielle's dreams reflect what is possible for all children when provided with the right educational opportunities and support. The Education Cannot Wait initiative plays an integral role in this process, funding programs focused on improving access to education in crisis contexts, particularly for marginalized groups like children with disabilities. The centers not only provide academic education but also vocational training, equipping students with skills to enter the job market post-graduation.

Life in the Central African Republic remains challenging, particularly for children. The ongoing conflicts and disruptions have severely impacted education systems, leaving many without access to proper schooling. Parents like Urielle’s have embedded in her the belief that education is key to transforming her life and breaking the cycle of adversity.

Urielle aims to continue her studies and inspiring others through storytelling, envisioning a future where she hosts her own radio show. With an ever-expanding passion for sharing narratives, she knows her journey is just beginning. "I have at least six more years of study ahead of me, and I am ready to embrace that challenge because storytelling is my passion," she states with a radiant smile.

Through Urielle's journey, we witness the immense potential that lies within all children, especially when given access to the necessary tools and resources to thrive, regardless of their circumstances. Her story serves as a powerful reminder that barriers can be overcome with education, support, and unwavering determination.