My name is Embet Mesele. I live in Axum, Ethiopia, where I was born and raised. I am 13 years old and a grade 7 student learning at the Hebret Elementary School. I have a sister named Kisanet and a brother named Robel. My father was a government employee, and my mother is a housewife. Because of my family’s very low income, my family cannot afford to send me to a private school to receive a quality education.

If it hadn’t been for the war three years ago, I would be in high school, and I could have qualified for the special school in Mekelle. The war affected us in so many ways. We had to flee our homes to escape the fighting. I never thought I would survive, but by the grace of God we are alive, and I am able to go to school again.

When I grow up, I want to be a doctor specializing in HIV/AIDS. This is because there are many people in my country suffering from the disease. By studying hard, I hope to find a cure and provide treatment for HIV/AIDS patients. I believe people in these communities deserve access to quality medical care. I also hope to become a researcher in the chemical field and make my country proud. To achieve this dream, I am now studying at a very good private school.

I want to sincerely thank COEEF and my sponsors for making it possible for me to attend a private school. If I had not been sponsored, I would not have been able to attend a private school or receive a quality education. Without the support, I would have to go to a government school where the quality of education is much lower. When I grow up, I want to help children in need just as you have helped me.