My name is Sabri, and I am 12 years old. I live in Kabartu camp with my uncle’s family because I lost my family when I was 2 years old. One day my father come home, and he was very angry and he shot my mother, my two sisters and one brother. He killed them all, but I didn’t know for what reason? I hid myself behind the curtain because I was afraid, and I didn’t want him to kill me. Until now, I don’t understand why this happened, and now my father has gone to prison forever.

My uncle took me to his family, and they have cared about me as their son.

I was four years old when ISIS come to our village. It was hard for my uncle to save me also with his family, but he took turns carrying me and his son on his shoulders as we fled.

When we came to the camp, my uncles’ children were able to go to the school. I wanted to go with them but because I don’t have a Civil identity card, I was unable to attend. It was a difficult feeling to see everyone going without me! The only thing I could do is play on my own, or paint, and I also help care for my cousin who is disabled.

Then I come to the Heroes journey program. I liked so much about it! I liked coming out with groups of friends, I liked learning about my hero powers (hope, belief, kindness, thankfulness, and courage)! I especially liked hope and belief, because in the story of Joseph, I realized that I was like him. He grew up without parents, but he never lost hope and he never felt alone because God was with him all the time.

Now I know that is true for me, too.  After the program, I became more hopeful even I’m not in the school. I will work on myself to be artist in the future so that I can take care of myself, and my uncle and his family, and serve my community.

Because of the generosity of people like you, children like Sabri are equipped to overcome obstacles they may face and move forward. 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 the family.