Stories of hope

Richard’s story

Rwanda

“When I arrived in Rwanda as a refugee from Burundi, life was tough. I had to rely on aid. Then I got the opportunity to use a small plot of land, but I didn’t have the farming skills to make an income from it.

“Through Practical Action’s training, I learned to produce organic fertilisers and pesticides, reducing my costs and boosting harvests. I used techniques like mulching, composting, and growing flowers for pest control to improve the quality of my crops. I became an example for others in the community, showing them how good farming can also be low cost.

“My income is set to treble this year. I’m optimistic about the future. I dream of returning to Burundi, taking this knowledge with me, not just to seek a job, but to create opportunities for others. With the education I’ve received, my family don’t have to worry about whether there will be enough food to eat, and my ambitions have grown. I hope to expand my farming and continue making a difference.”

Tirtha’s story

Nepal

“I live in a community that’s often threatened by the floods from the Karnali River. Each year, we faced the heartbreak of seeing our homes and livelihoods washed away. But things have changed for the better. Thanks to a new insurance scheme introduced by Practical Action, our lives have transformed. After a flood, those insured receive their compensation promptly, allowing us to rebuild and recover swiftly.

“We no longer live in constant fear of the floods. Instead, we can plan our futures, invest in our homes, and dream bigger for our children. The community’s spirit is stronger, and there’s a sense of hope in the air.

“I’ve never been prouder to be part of this resilient community. With this newfound security, we’re forging ahead, optimistic about what the future holds.”

Brighter Futures

Peru

Sixteen schools in remote areas of Peru are thriving, thanks to your support. Four years ago they lacked basic services. They now have clean water, hygienic toilets, electricity and an internet connection.

Parents and teachers took the lead, looking after the new equipment and systems that brought power to their schools. When online learning became more important during the COVID-19 pandemic, we introduced learning apps in local languages, helping a further 225,000 children in other indigenous communities.

Students are now less likely to miss school due to illness, are achieving better results, and have digital skills that will prepare them for modern jobs and a future out of poverty. Teachers, equipped with new resources, are delivering more engaging lessons. With the completion of this project, a replicable model has emerged, promising a brighter, more inclusive educational future for children across Peru and beyond.

Image text: “Learning is the best!”