I was 15 years old when I entered school for the first time. I could not speak English. I could not read or write. I worried I was too far behind and that my teachers might give up on me.
But they never did.
All my teachers and classmates supported me. No one laughed. No one told me I was too slow. Slowly, I began to catch up. And for the first time, I began to believe in myself.
Even when I had to repeat a year, I kept going. I worked part-time to help my family and pushed myself to do better. Over time, I became a role model, not only to my siblings, but to my peers as well.
"Honestly, I could not be more proud to see how much he has grown," said one of my teachers.
Why Education Matters
At Dignity, I learned more than Math, Science, or English. I discovered myself.
Before this, I never imagined I’d enjoy things like cooking or budgeting. But through skills training, I found out I could do so much more.
I realised that I didn’t just enjoy cooking — I loved it. I loved the energy of preparing food, serving people, and seeing their faces light up. I loved creating something that made others happy. And for the first time in my life, I dared to dream.
Education gave me more than knowledge. It taught me that no dream is too small.
Finding His Passion
At Dignity, I received more than an academic education. Through the Skills Training and Employability Program (STEP), I was introduced to practical experiences such as cooking, budgeting, and teamwork.
During the annual Dignity College Bazaar, my team and I managed a small food stall. We were the first to sell out. That day sparked something in me. I realised I truly enjoyed preparing food and serving people.