Aminata and Patmelia are Hope International graduates and university scholarship recipients. They are set to graduate in 2026 from United Methodist University with degrees in nursing.
Better Together | A Story of Friendship
By Aminata & Patmelia
Our friendship began at an early stage in life when we enrolled at Hope International School in 2007. We started together in the first grade, though we were not very close at that time. However, everything changed when we were promoted to the second grade we somehow became best friends.
During recess, we would combine our money to buy food; especially our favorite treats cream biscuits and candy. After eating, we would spend the rest of the break playing together until it was time to return to class. Beyond the fun, we supported each other academically. We studied together; helped each other with assignments, and whenever one of us didn’t understand something, the other would try to explain. If we were both confused, we would not hesitate to seek help from our classmates (Aminata and Patmelia were Class of 2019 Co-Valedictorians you can read about that here).
Like any true friendship, we faced challenges along the way. We had disagreements at times, but we never allowed others to interfere. We believed in settling our issues ourselves. Whoever was wrong would apologize, and everything would return to normal. This approach has helped our friendship grow stronger over the years.
Our bond has endured from childhood all the way to the university level. We never allowed differences in tribe or religion to come between us. Instead, we built our relationship on love, respect, and genuine care just like biological sisters. In fact, many people assume we are sisters because of the deep connection we share.
We celebrate each other’s successes rather than envy them, always wishing for greater achievements for one another. We have also learned not to be influenced by negative opinions from others, which have greatly strengthened our friendship. Our relationship has become a source of admiration within our community.
Though words cannot fully capture everything we have shared, we are deeply grateful to God for blessing us with such each other. This sisterhood is one that will last a lifetime, even as we grow old together.
A Message of Gratitude
To the Hope Project, we extend our heartfelt appreciation for these life-changing scholarships. It is truly a dream come true. Because of this opportunity, we are now able to pursue our dreams of becoming nurses.
Without this scholarship, we wouldn’t have been certain of attending university after completing high school. Our parents would have tried their best but may not have come this far. For this reason, we are deeply grateful to all of you, and to our sponsors, who made it possible.
We promise to make you proud and not to disappoint you. Thank you so much for believing in us and for giving us this opportunity. It takes truly remarkable and compassionate individuals to do what you are doing for us.
Thank you and may God richly bless you.