Vocational Training and Character Formation
Sher Azam is a community leader who supports public projects among the shepherd people in remote villages in northern Pakistan, including making improvements to education in village schools.
“My family has lived here in this village for the last 70 years,” he explains. “We have been considered the least important people in this valley. My community is very poor and struggles for everyday survival. I have never seen anyone coming and helping us.
“When I met the leadership of your group many years ago I was not so sure that they would keep working with us and for my community. After a few years I realise that they are different people and they fulfil their promises. Today I can see a big change in my community. Those people who hated education are now loving it. They are no longer hesitating to send their kids to school. Now the young generation is different from the old generation – everyone supports education.“
Looking Back, Looking Forward
Looking forward, we have our ears to the ground, to listen to the community and discern a path of hope into the future.
A Teacher’s Heart
The goal of the education project, run by our partner organisation, is to work with remote communities to improve access to education through adult literacy classes and operational support for five remote village schools.
Transforming Grief into Hope
Our work goes far beyond seminars and trainings.
“I’m playing for my family.”
North Macedonia – STEP: Rrustem’s StoryRrustem joined us three years ago when the football project first began, and he has remained one of the chief “veterans” of the Skopje Eagles.
The Road to the Top
Our Galaxy Event for STEP graduates each year is a dazzling display of talent and creativity. Dresses, wedding gowns, hairstyles, and stunning cosmetic creations are there for all to admire.
Talent in the Room
The quality of training and product in all areas was professional; the standard had been raised.
Partnerships Transform Families
Sharif* grew up in a very conservative village. He was bullied at school by students and teachers. His family had heard of our partner’s Scholarship Program and their partnership with the local center to provide housing and support for students just like him.
Helping Me Accomplish My Dreams
“Recently I completed my master’s degree in mathematics. I give all the credit to the Scholarship Program that has always stood behind me from kindergarten to university education.
Mobile Tent Schools
In remote, seminomadic communities in Pakistan, the school year used to come to a halt during the seasonal migrations. Children missed out on up to seven months of education,
“If you are with me, I’m not afraid to go forward.”
She told us, “If you are with me, I’m not afraid to go forward.” We believe in her and trust that she will take the next step towards making her dream come true.
Finding Sunshine
In STEP vocational training, Azra is now part of the sewing group. She was already able to sew the most beautiful front pieces of embroidery at home and soon,
The Right People, Ripe for Change
Operation Mercy is about people. At its heart, it’s about believing in the right people—those who are ready for transformation—and praying that they find their way to us.
Character Affects Relationships
While attending a character development training, Heba was reminded of a past conflict with her manager and close friend at work. Once, while her manager was traveling,
Equipping the Next Generation
Working in partnership with local education institutions, more than 2,000 students go through various parts of the life skills program each year.
I Want Them to Prosper
The Leadership Development Programme was created by our partner organization to provide educational assistance to the marginalized students in northern Pakistan who otherwise wouldn’t be able to attend school.
The Class of Transformations
The STEP class of this year has been a story of new beginnings.