“Devastated” was the feeling that washed over Analiza when she learned that her parents couldn’t afford to send her to school. Her dreams of becoming a teacher faded into a dim reality, much like a small lamp casting a weak light on a pitch-black night.
Determined to do something instead of staying at home, she eagerly accepted a job offered to her. She packed her bags and left her humble island home and headed for the bustling city of Davao, Philippines.
Analiza, also called An-An, worked in the household of a pastor. She covered all kinds of tasks from cleaning to baby-sitting but was always treated as part of the family. Soon after, she learned about Global Impact’s annual Catalyst Leadership Academy where multiple opportunities opened for her.
At Global Impact, An-An found a family where she was loved and celebrated. A new hope grew in her heart when she was accepted into Global Impact’s Educational Scholarship Program. She was grateful and excited that her childhood dreams of becoming a teacher were finally coming back to life!
An-An enrolled at the local university to embark on her journey as a college student and start her studies in Elementary Education. She gleefully explained that she loves working with children and it gives her joy being in the classroom. She added “Elementary education is foundational to learning. I want to be part of molding these kids to learn that their progress can be clearly seen.” An-An is passionate about elementary education because it is critical for advanced learning.
Along with her studies during college, she worked with Global Impact’s civic student organization to inform university students about the dangers of human trafficking and involve them in the fight against this atrocity. Through Global Impact, she also actively teaches public school children on how to protect themselves from traffickers and to understand that they have value as special creations of God.
With her love for music and an angelic voice, An-An leads worship during Global Impact’s Ignite Services and Catalyst Leadership Academy. She explained that worship is one of her favorite ways to connect to God. She shared a line from her favorite song which says, “I don’t know what tomorrow holds, still I know I can trust Your faithfulness.” It is a gentle reminder that God is always faithful to her no matter what.
Having earned her bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education, she looks forward to a bright future where she can make a difference in the lives of children and parents through the education and training she received. She added that Global Impact’s Educational Scholarship has empowered her to grow as a woman of God, develop her skills and pursue her dreams!
