Greetings, my name is Sila. I am 13 years old and in sixth grade. I live with my parents, who are both farmers, and four siblings.
Before I participated in the Joy of Our Children (JOC) programs, I did not know much about health. I used to have a prejudice against very skinny people because I thought they had HIV. I frequently had stomachaches and diarrhea. I did not like staying home to help my parents. I often disobeyed them and went out with my friends instead.
After I joined JOC, I began to understand a lot about health, such as HIV, STDs, ways to prevent illness and other useful information. I got to participate in a special Buddy System program. I have learned so much: how to care for myself, and how to protect myself and others. The teachers also encouraged me to be obedient and helpful to my parents. I learned how to care for younger children in my community in many ways, including helping them in their studies and with cooking rice. These things have made my heart happy. When I finish school, I want to become a good teacher.
At the moment, there are many people in my village who are addicted to alcohol and gambling. I want to see my villagers transform. And, especially, I want the children in my village to understand more about health and wellbeing.
Finally, I would like to say thank you to the JOC teachers for coming into my village to teach me. May all the teachers stay healthy and continue to teach in my village.