Just 3 Years, But a Big Journey – A Powerful Student Testimony

I used to be a shy person who didn’t know how to say hello or make new friends. I lacked confidence and felt afraid to talk to others. That feeling stayed with me for quite a long time until I came to Dorothea’s Project Legacy 3. I found this place by chance at the beginning of summer 2022. The security guard at this place, who happens to be my uncle, told my mom about this amazing place. My mom took me there and signed me up for class.

Ly, a boy who used to be very shy

At first, I was scared. A wave of nervousness hit me. My mom encouraged me a lot so I could be brave enough to go. And then, just three days later, my first class began. I stepped into the classroom feeling unfamiliar, anxious, and worried. I thought my summer would be filled with fear and discomfort, but in fact, it was the beginning of the most wonderful journey I’ve ever had.

The day I met Robert, my life and access to education completely changed

As I kept going to class, I realized how friendly and joyful everyone was. The classmates I met were so kind. I started to feel happy, like I finally found a place where I truly belong. Time passed, and now I’ve been with Dorothea’s Project Legacy 3 for three years.

Here, I learned all the knowledge related to my subjects

I’ve joined many wonderful activities like STEM experiments and learned many important life skills such as leadership, teamwork, time management, all taught with great care by our teachers. These lessons helped me see where I needed to grow, and I’ve slowly improved myself.

Besides that, I also gained a lot of soft skills

My schoolwork also became smoother. Especially in physics, thanks to the teachers her, I now enjoy the subject so much more. Through classes, experiences, and meeting many guests from different countries, I’ve become more confident. My speaking skills have improved a lot so much that even my mom compliments me and feels proud of me.

Now, I can achieve many awards for being an excellent student

Now I’m not afraid to speak in front of a crowd. I’m brave enough to face life’s challenges. Three years may not be a long time, but they’ve helped me grow and learn so much.

I am surrounded by wonderful friends

I've realized that this world is full of beautiful things like the pure smiles of people when they’re happy, the kindness in their hearts, and the beautiful souls I’ve been lucky to meet. These beautiful things deserve to be protected. That’s why I’ve made a decision: I want to protect those smiles as a peacekeeper in my country. That’s my dream.

Still me, but a much better version than before

I want to study in the Military field, specifically in armored vehicle operations. So right now, I’m doing my best to prepare for the national high school graduation exam at the end of June 2025.

When I look back at everything I’ve experienced and all the emotions I’ve felt, I feel so happy and deeply grateful for my memories with Dorothea’s Project Legacy 3.

I am grateful for the opportunity to grow in this place

Thank you to my teachers. Thank you to my friends. Thank you to the kind sponsors who made Dorothea’s Project Legacy 3 possible. And thank you to Mr. Robert, you are one of the most wonderful people I’ve ever met. Seeing you bring joy and hope to so many people gave me strength and belief in my dream.

We're very pleased to help children in difficult circumstances as part of its mission. Become an important part of our work by contacting us at robert@givingitbacktokids.org or visiting our website: gibtk.org.

"We highly appreciate you and thank you for transforming lives"

Robert Kalatschan

Giving it Back to Kids

www.gibtk.org

robert@gibtk.org