Hope International graduates and university scholarship recipients Lorenzo Shasha and Augustine Ballah Kolubah
Last week you read about the amazing staff that educates nearly 1,500 students and lays the foundation for them to further their education should the opportunity arise to attend university. Augustine and Lorenzo are two Hope graduates who, through the generosity of this stateside community, were able to pursue their university degrees. They are set to graduate this upcoming semester with degrees in Agriculture and Engineering. Augustine shared their story of friendship and gratitude.
“Our friendship began in 2015 when we were in the 9th grade at Hope International School. At that time, Lorenzo attended the morning session while I attended the evening session. Despite this difference, we met and quickly became close friends.
We both faced many challenges growing up. Lorenzo lived with his uncle, who was physically disabled, and often helped his aunt at her cook shop by washing dishes after school. He also took on part-time work at a sanitation center, cleaning tools such as shovels and wheelbarrows, and even organized study classes all to support him with school fees and basic needs.
Similarly, I faced my own struggles. I lived with my older sister and worked as a bar attendant after school. At times, I also did part-time construction work to support my education. Being without a father and with my mother working hard in the interior, I had to take responsibility for my schooling.
Despite these challenges, our friendship remained strong. Throughout our time in high school, we studied together daily, encouraged one another, and pushed ourselves to succeed. We shared notes, brainstormed ideas, and supported each other through every difficulty. Our dedication paid off out of 96 students in our 12th-grade class, Lorenzo graduated as the valedictorian, while I graduated as the salutatorian. From the time we met, we made it our goal to always strive for excellence, and we achieved it together.
Lorenzo was especially helpful in subjects like mathematics, chemistry, and physics, where he consistently supported our studies. His determination and willingness to help others made him not only a great friend but also an inspiring partner in our academic journey.
After high school, we both enrolled at Stella Maris Polytechnic University. Even though we pursued different courses, we continued to spend time together commuting on the same bus, sharing meals, and supporting one another. After three semesters, we made the decision together to transfer to the University of Liberia.
Although it was a difficult decision, we remained determined. We both sat for the University of Liberia entrance examination and were successful. Since then, our bond has remained unbroken. At the University of Liberia, we continue to motivate one another, share ideas, and strive for excellence. Today, we are proud to be on the verge of graduating.
Looking back, we realize that our friendship has been a cornerstone of our success. We have learned from each other, grown together and overcome many challenges side by side.
We would like to dedicate this achievement to you who made this possible. Your support has played a vital role in our journey, and we are grateful. Thank you for believing in us and investing in our future.”
Their story of grit, determination, and enduring friendship is a gift to us all.
Through the gifts so many of you have shared, 17 additional Hope International graduates have also received scholarships to attend university. Many, many others have also been provided vocational scholarships over the years. Thank you for your partnership that provides educational opportunities and supports the future Liberia all the students are dreaming of.