My name is Dagmawi. I am a university student at Hawassa University in Department of Architecture.
The path I have taken was not an easy road. Especially before 6th grade, I wasn’t good at school because of I didn’t know the meaning of learning, I don’t know how but after 6th grade I started to change and improve.
“Success is not where you start. It's where you end up, and most importantly,
It's about the journey in between. “
I started a new chapter when I started a relationship with CTE. They offered more than just physical support; they gave me the mental and emotional boost I craved. They recognized the talents that I sometimes had trouble seeing on my own. With their help, I began to remove the things that hindered me. It was not an overnight change. The Faith I had about my skills gradually changed. Progressively, my academic performance improved. The more I learn I was more eager to gain knowledge. Curiosity flared up in me; This inspired me to have superior skills.
There were still stumbles, moments of doubt and despair along the way. However, the support I have built around me; my family, friends and the sponsorship program (CTE) became my anchor. They were my cheerleaders reminding me; how far I will go and how much I could go.
Fast forward to today and I am currently a student in Architecture. I've worked hard to get where I am now. It is a testament of unwavering determination. “No matter your background is or no matter what your circumstances are; my story is a pen of hope that reminds you that anything is possible.”
So, if you are a student who is feeling discouraged, remember my story. Remember not to waste time to fix things. Help is available, and it is within you to have the ability to wait to be pointed out. There is a source. Believe in yourself and try to get support; also, never stop working towards your dreams. You too can accomplish great things.
“Dagi is one of our active, submissive and ethical children. Dagi was with CTE since the establishment of CTE. I have seen the progress of his change. I remember the time his change started. When he was 6th grade, we collected children’s Semester result like we always do and I was sad when I saw his result. He placed 43rd from 50 students. I told him that I wanted to talk to him personally and had one to one conversation with him. After we talked he promised me that he would improve his result. That same year in the next semester he placed 4th from 50 students, passed to seventh grade and he came running from school to show us his results. He was so excited that he didn’t go to home and directly came to the office to show us his result. I was happy to see the fruit of hard work. Rahel (Program Manager)” 
