Dundee residents travel to Rwanda to visit sponsored child

Dundee couple Tom and Elizabeth Scott have just returned from Rwanda where they met Shema, the child they have been sponsoring for nearly five years through child development charity, Compassion UK.

The retired teachers travelled to the Rwanda with local charity, Level 8 Projects based in Carnoustie to visit one of their education projects which helps children living in poverty. They extended their trip to visit sponsored child, 11-year-old Shema.

“Rwanda exceeded our expectations in so many ways, but meeting Shema was the highlight of our trip,” shares 70-year-old Elizabeth. “We were warmly welcomed into her home, which she shares with her mother and siblings. It was a very humbling and moving experience to meet Shema’s mother, who has raised 10 children and is still caring for one grandchild on her own after Shema’s father left the family,” explains the retired English teacher.

Shema lives in the mountainous community of Kagesa, 40 km northeast of Kibungo. Typically houses in the area are constructed of cement floors, mud walls and tin roofs. Most adults in Kagesa work as day labourers and earn the equivalent of £10 per month.

“It was a real privilege to meet Shema in her own home and learn more about her community. Initially, Shema was quite shy but as we shared gifts together she opened up and we were able to connect and gain a deeper understanding of the difference our sponsorship makes.”

The Scott’s sponsorship enables Shema to be part of her local Compassion project where she receives nutritious meals, emotional support, medical attention, vocational training and the chance to get a good quality education.

“Shema is now doing very well at school and told us her ambition is to be a leader in her local community one day. We hope she continues to make good progress and grows up to achieve her dreams.”