My name is Jowan, and I am 12 years old. I live in a Syrian refugee camp in Kurdistan.  I have a small family - my parents, and one younger brother and one younger sister. I’m the eldest. My family are originally from Syria, but I grew up here. I have always felt very loved in my family, but for some reason  I began to have a problem with shame from a very young age. I was always feeling alone.

 Even when I was at home, if we had a visitor come in, I would go outside or into another room to hide. I was not able to see anyone. One day in school, the teacher wanted me to go to the board. I couldn’t do it, I was so afraid, and I cried because of my shame. It was always bothering me. Sometimes, I would run away so as not to see people because I was afraid.

 After I came to the Heroes Journey program, I had the courage to face that shame. I felt so excited about everything! I believe that courage overcomes fear. Whenever I feel tight, I take a deep breath and say to myself, “I am a hero, I’m not afraid!” Because of the Heroes Journey program, my life has changed.

Because of the generosity of people like you, children like Jowan have learned how to face their shame, and be courageous. BUT there are thousands of people with stories that are yet to end with hope. Help Tutapona provide that hope and healing by donating today.

*Name has been changed to protect the individual and family.