December 2024

Meeting with 13 Graduates of the Good Neighbors Sponsorship Program in Rasht district” On the eve of the New Year, a meaningful and heartfelt meeting was held at the Boqi Rahimzoda Jamoat building in the Rasht district. The gathering brought together 13 students who graduated from the Good Neighbors International Sponsorship Program in the Republic of Tajikistan and are now pursuing their studies at the Pedagogical Institute and colleges within the Rasht district. The event featured speeches from key community leaders, including the chairman of the Jamoat, B. Rahimzoda, as well as the directors of schools No. 18, 71, and 7. These esteemed individuals shared valuable insights and advice, offering the graduates practical guidance to help them navigate their paths toward successful futures. After the meeting essential winter uniforms distributed to the program graduates. Each student received shoes, socks, scarves, and jackets to help them stay warm during the colder months. Additionally, the educational expenses for one year were covered for two graduates of the program who are currently studying at the institutes. The leadership of the Boqi Rahimzoda Jamoat, school directors, and program alumni expressed heartfelt gratitude to Good Neighbors International in the Republic of Tajikistan. Their ongoing dedication to assisting children and families in need has made a lasting positive impact on the community.

Good Neighbors Tajikistan is dedicated to promoting the rights of all children, and the recent event organized by our Kulob Community Development Project is a testament to this mission. We aimed to inspire children with disabilities to recognize their rights and potential. The event brought together individuals with disabilities, sponsored children, and their teachers, creating a space for sharing uplifting life stories. One participant shared her journey after losing a hand; she now accomplishes all tasks with her left hand, even driving a car. Another attendee, who uses a wheelchair, is a talented seamstress known for her beautiful dresses, receiving orders from far and wide. A third participant, who has a speech impediment, expresses herself through art and teaches children to draw. Jabborova Mavjuda, who has both hearing and speech impairments, engaged the audience with her expressive gestures. At 50 years old, she inspires her students as an art teacher. When she asked if anyone wanted to learn to draw, all the children eagerly raised their hands, leading to a fun drawing session. As the meeting concluded, participants reflected on its profound impact. One sponsored child remarked, “This meeting transformed my perspective on life, lifted my spirits, and boosted my motivation. It has changed my world for the better. When a person with disabilities embraces life so fully, it reminds those of us without disabilities to cherish and utilize our health to live richer, more fulfilling lives.” This gathering not only highlighted the resilience of individuals with disabilities but also reinforced the importance of community support and understanding. Together, we can create a world where every child, regardless of their circumstances, has the opportunity to thrive.