A special note from Kate Kessenich, Kujali’s Field Operations Director, about one of our HSS graduates, Damas Matthias. Damas is currently participating in Kujali’s Bridge Program, through which Kujali provides counseling, transitional support, and when possible, financial sponsorship to enable graduates to pursue higher education opportunities. Learn more about our Bridge Program>>.
When you meet a student like Damas, you are quickly reminded of why we are here. I have had the privilege of knowing and working with Damas for the past year and a half, and am still continuously in awe of his strength and determination, his contagious optimism, and his generous heart.
A recent graduate of HOCET Secondary School, Damas has experienced and overcome a number of challenges throughout his life. At only three years old, Damas became the “man-of-the-house” after his father past away, and after his mother died when he was 16, he became the guardian and sole caretaker of his younger half brother, who is now only 10 years old.
Caretaking and personal responsibility are at the core of who Damas is. Not only does he take care of his young brother, he also consistently utilizing his skills to care for those around him. After teaching himself how to sew, he started using the HSS sewing machines to help size down other students’ oversized clothes. After teaching himself how to repair electronics, he has spared many friends, teachers, and volunteers the frustrations of broken phones, TVs, fans, and radios.
Damas makes the most of the resources, knowledge, and relationships that he does have. When one generous volunteer gave him her camera, he managed to get his hands on some business cards and started a small photo business to help cover the cost of some of his basic needs. Damas explained, “When someone shows me kindness and helps me in some way, I am always thinking about how I can best use that help to change my situation and reach my dreams. I want that person who helped me to know that their kindness did not go to waste.”
During his years as HSS, he worked hard to get good grades, learn English, and take on leadership positions at the school. Now, as a recent graduate of our 2011 class, he his more determined than ever to become self-sufficient and reach his dream of becoming an engineer. I have no doubt in my mind that with his kind of drive, kindness and entrepreneurial spirit, this is possible.
Congratulations to Damas for graduating from secondary school! We are so grateful that you are a part of our family and are eager to see what you do next!
With love,
Kate & the Kujali Team
