Eniafe* walked into the home he grew up in, smiling so big his cheeks hurt. “It is so wonderful to be home!” he exclaimed as his house parents and the other eight children in the home enveloped him in hugs.
Eniafe is the first high school graduate from the home he has grown and healed within, and he recently returned for a visit after three months away at university in Abuja. When word got out to neighbors that he was home for a visit, the door to his home kept opening as more people welcomed him back, inquiring about his studies and life in the city.
“Eniafe is living out a dream so many Nigerian youth hold dear,” explained Back2Back staff. “He is a pathfinder in his home, setting the pace for those who will follow in his bold footsteps.” He is attending a standard university in Nigeria’s capital city and is adapting to the rules and codes of conduct on campus easily.
During his visit, Eniafe was able to sit with the younger boys still in the home and answer their questions about university life. It was an encouragement to Eniafe for his efforts in school and for the many men and women who have stepped in and cared for each of the children at the home. As the younger children in the home dream of walking in Eniafe’s footsteps, Eniafe was humbled and delighted to tell of his time away and the new goals he has set for himself.
This is the power of advocacy in action – young adults know their dreams are achievable, and a precedent is set for younger generations – their pasts do not define what can be accomplished, and they’ll never be alone in any step they take. This is hope.
