Encouraged by this, Patrick decided to become his sponsor as he wanted him to know that he is not alone to face the challenges ahead of him and he can always count on his sponsor, the passionate volunteers and staff from World Vision to lend a helping hand whenever needed.

“This couldn't be achieved by one individual but like-minded people who have the heart to help people and pool our resources to achieve that. I hope that more people will take up the sponsorship journey and make a difference to the life of a child and community.”

“One of my Mongolian boy wrote to me saying I believe we will meet again one day. My boy from the Philippines who always address me as auntie Elaine said he will study hard to let his family feel proud of him,” shared Elaine.

“The yearly photo sent along with the yearly report, is always a joy to receive because compared to the previous year, she would always look the same yet much grown-up and always donning the simple accessories that I mailed over or outfits that I bought when I went for the trips,” explained Elsie.

“When I first met my sponsored child, I felt emotional as I felt a sense of connection to him. But being only five years old at that time, it took him some time to warm up to me though his older sisters were extremely warm and friendly..."

Since the pandemic began, 16-year-old Kampamba has seen an increase in students that struggle with teenage pregnancies, sexual abuse and defilement cases, and being made to work in cattle herding, in his community. Many students also lack the resources and technology needed to access the government’s online lessons.

In South Sudan, child marriage affects 51.5% percent of girls in the country, is on the rise due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and along with early pregnancy, both issues are causing an increase in school dropout rates. For 17-year-old Aluel who dreams of being a lawyer, life only became more problematic as a result of the coronavirus.

22-year-old World Vision UK Youth Advocate Asini is passionate about using her privilege and power to make a difference in the lives of those who were not so fortunate. Speaking at various platforms both in her personal spheres and in public spheres, Asini brings light to the issues of child marriage and girl rights to those around her, inspiring them to take steps to make a change.

Life can be tough. For children living in the places where it’s hardest to be a child, it’s tougher again. And for children living with a disability in those places – well, tough is often just the beginning. Here’s what we’re doing about it.