We were blown away by the support we received throughout our recent Tax Appeal when our amazing VANA Ministries staff member Ruth told her inspiring story of courage.
Ruth has always been, and continues to be, an inspiration to the team at VANA.
Working on the ground in Zimbabwe, Ruth is at the coalface of what we do, supporting vulnerable children who need help.
We recently sat down with her to see how she was going after sharing her courageous story with us all.
VANA: Ruth, tell us what affect sharing your courageous story has had on you personally?
RUTH: When I was asked to share my story at VANA, I did not realise the emotional roller coaster healing and liberation that was going to come with it. It helped me reflect on issues that I had tried to bury and forget for years and on the other hand helped me understand myself and what I am called to do.
It brought me assurance that I am called to do the job I am doing now at VANA. The other thing that also struck me hard was that even though I grew up in poverty, I have a lot of lovely memories of the love that I received from my parents. As a child I did not realise the sacrifices they made for us but during this journey I became mature and appreciative of their sacrifice.
I now openly share my story and encourage parents and guardians not to concentrate on the poverty that they may have but to leave their children with memories of their parents’ love.
Indeed for me, my difficult childhood has created good memories and has shaped me to be who I am today.
I pray that my story will also create hope for children who are going through what I went through.
Through VANA I have found my voice, found peace and they have helped me reaffirm my passion.
VANA: What you say to our amazing supporters who generously donated to VANA’s recent Appeal?
RUTH: We greatly appreciate everyone who has donated to the recent EOFY. Our success story as VANA is incomplete without you. Your financial support has helped children to receive education, school uniforms, stationary and a meal every school going day. Thank you for courageously choosing to sponsor vulnerable children.
If you haven't had the chance to hear Ruth's inspiring story, check out the video below.