In Francistown, Botswana, the children gathered this month to talk about Beauty in Diversity. It was not a loud or complicated lesson. It was quiet, thoughtful, and honest. The children were encouraged to see that everyone comes from a different story, and that those differences matter. In a safe and gentle space, they learned that respect, kindness, and God’s love are meant for everyone, no matter their background or circumstances.

One of the volunteers serving that day carries a story of her own. She is a missionary from the Philippines who built a life in Africa after marrying a Nigerian national. When she lost her husband, grief became part of her daily life, along with the responsibility of raising her daughter alone. Still, she chose not to step away from her calling. Instead, she continued to serve, trusting God even when the pain felt heavy. Through Allies in Youth Development, she teaches children about culture, respect, and truth, offering what she has learned through both loss and faith.

One quiet boy stood out during the lesson. He grew up without knowing his father and was raised by his mother, struggling at times to follow lessons in English but always trying his best. Later, he lost his mother too and went to live with his grandmother. The sadness he carried was easy to see, even when he said nothing. When he joined Allies in Youth Development Bana, something began to shift. As he took part in the games, lessons, and conversations, his eyes slowly brightened. Hearing about God’s love and the idea of a Father in Heaven who sees and cares for him helped soften the grief he carried inside. For the first time in a while, he smiled freely.

Stories like this remind us why these moments matter. Through the steady presence of volunteers and the support of those who give, children in Botswana are finding belonging where there was once loss. They are learning that they are not defined by what they have lost, but by the love that surrounds them and the hope that is still possible. Thank you for making space for healing, faith, and new beginnings.