My Path from Dropout to Future Engineer

Hope Restored: My Path from Dropout to Future Engineer
By: USENGIMANA Charles – Uruvumvuti Village, Higiro Cell, Nyanza Sector, Gisagara District

My name is Usengimana Charles, and I am 17 years old. I come from Uruvumvuti Village in Higiro Cell, Nyanza Sector. I was born into a very poor family, and although my parents worked hard, their small income could not cover all our basic needs, especially school materials.

Because of this, I dropped out of school in Primary 4, and that became one of the saddest moments in my life. Every day, I watched other children going to school while I stayed home helping my parents with small tasks. My dream of becoming an engineer started to fade away, and I felt hopeless.

Everything changed when FMI “Ubumuntu” came to our village through their “Back to School” campaign. They listened to my story and gave me a second chance. They encouraged me to go back to school and supported me with all the materials I needed, books, uniform, pens, and even school feeding. They also enrolled me in their weekend and holiday coaching program, which helped me catch up with other students and rebuild my confidence. Slowly, I started improving in class and believing in myself again.

Later, I joined the FMI “Ubumuntu” FC Academy, a football club established by the organization to promote children’s talents and social inclusion. Through football, I learned teamwork, discipline, and the value of friendship. It was more than just playing, it was a way of growing and learning to dream again.

FMI “Ubumuntu” also supported my family through a Parent Savings Group. Parents were encouraged to save a small amount each year to buy domestic animals. My parents joined, and with their savings, they managed to buy three goats, which helped improve our household income and stability.

Today, I am proud to say that I passed the National Examination for the 2024–2025 school year and am now in Senior One. I now receive support from FMI Ubumuntu about $60 annually for school materials, feeding, and other needs. I feel deeply thankful to FMI “Ubumuntu” for standing by me and my family. Without their support, I don’t know where I would be today.

My dream is to finish university and become an engineer. I want to build a better future for my family, my village, and other children who, like me, only need someone to believe in them.

Thank you, FMI “Ubumuntu”, for restoring my hope and helping me find my path again. 💚