From Struggle to Strength: A Story of Hope from Kworo High School

Students at Kworo High School

A Story of Quiet Strength and Hope

In Northern Uganda, where opportunity can be scarce and hardship common, it takes extraordinary courage for a young girl to dream. Atim Lydia is one of those girls. Raised by her elderly grandmother after her parents separated and her father was imprisoned, Lydia’s path has been far from easy. Yet through it all, she’s remained steadfast in her desire to learn, grow, and create a better future for herself and her family.

Her story is a powerful reminder of the impact education can have and of what’s possible when someone is given the chance to succeed.

Lydia’s School Campus

Atim Lydia is a bright and determined student at Kworo High School, located in the heart of Northern Uganda. She currently lives in Patongo sub-county in Agago District, under the care of her elderly grandmother. Her story is one of resilience, hardship, and the transformative power of education.

Several years ago, Lydia’s parents separated, leaving her and her siblings in the care of their father and grandmother. But when her father was arrested and sentenced to prison, the family’s already fragile support system collapsed. For the past three years, Lydia’s grandmother—despite her age and limited means—has done her best to care for the children. But the burden has been heavy.

“We’ve had to take on many responsibilities just to survive,” Lydia shares.

This includes looking for food and trying to find money for school fees. Lydia missed the first month of the school year because she was still working to gather the basic requirements needed to attend. Without her father’s support, the pressure to provide often falls on her young shoulders—impacting both her well-being and her education.

Finding Support at Kworo High School

Despite these challenges, Lydia’s life took a hopeful turn when she was accepted into Kworo High School on a partial scholarship.

“Kworo High School has changed my life,” she says.

The scholarship lifted a huge burden, allowing her to focus more on learning and less on survival. She speaks with gratitude about the school’s compassionate staff, who have never turned her away even when she couldn't afford to pay fees in full.

“They always listen when I explain my situation,” she says. “And they’ve never sent me home.”

The school has also opened her eyes to a higher standard of education, one she didn’t experience in her earlier schooling years.

Looking Ahead

Lydia’s journey isn’t just about hardship, it’s about hope, resilience, and the life-changing power of opportunity. With the support of a scholarship and the compassion of her school community, she’s turning obstacles into stepping stones toward her dream of becoming an engineer.

You can help open the door.

But many girls like Lydia are still waiting for their chance. Support our scholarship program today and be part of a story that changes everything.

*Name and photo changed for privacy