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Believing in Ymer

A Childhood in the Shadows

In a small Roma community in Gjakova, Kosova, Ymer grew up facing discrimination and limited opportunities. Like many children around him, education seemed like an unattainable dream, overshadowed by a deep sense of worthlessness. School wasn’t a place of encouragement—it was a daily reminder that he was invisible.

But then, something changed.

A Spark of Hope

When Ymer and his brother started attending tutoring classes through Cornerstone Kosovo last year, he felt a glimmer of hope. For the first time, he entered a space where learning wasn’t met with judgment. Yet, despite his efforts, Ymer still felt unseen. His teacher barely acknowledged his work, and the lack of encouragement made him doubt himself even more.

One afternoon, after a particularly discouraging class, Ymer returned home, defeated. Sensing his frustration, his brother urged him not to give up, reminding him that education could change his future. Taking those words to heart, Ymer committed to completing his homework diligently.

A Life-Changing Moment

What happened next was unexpected. At his next class, his teacher finally took notice. A few simple words of recognition—acknowledging his efforts—shifted something inside of him. For the first time, Ymer felt seen. He felt valued. And that moment sparked a transformation.

With renewed confidence, Ymer started sharing his progress with his family and friends. He beamed with pride as he told them about his teacher’s encouragement: “She is so glad I’m doing my homework!” His joy was contagious, proving that sometimes, all a child needs is to know that someone believes in them.

Encouragement That Made a Difference

Then came another turning point—Ymer started receiving letters from TyAnn Hunt, Forward Edge’s Child Sponsorship Administrator, who has been sponsoring children for over four decades. TyAnn’s dedication to child sponsorship goes beyond her role—she personally invests in the lives of children like Ymer.

“I just encouraged him to do his best and that this is all anyone could ask from him; that I was proud of him, Nora and Metush (Kosova Program Directors) were proud of him, and I’m sure his family was proud of him—and especially God was proud of him,” TyAnn shared. “From the beginning, when Nora shared Ymer’s profile information with me, I was touched and impressed that this boy had such a loving, generous, and joyful heart. It is so wonderful to hear that he is being affirmed in this.”

These letters became a source of strength, reinforcing the truth that had begun to take root in his heart: he was capable, he was worthy, and he had a purpose. Ymer now eagerly awaits the day he can meet TyAnn in person, excited to give her the hug he promised in his letters.

A Future Full of Possibilities

Today, Ymer approaches education with a new perspective. He no longer sees himself as just another overlooked child in a marginalized community. He sees himself as someone with potential, someone who can achieve more, someone who can inspire others.

Ymer’s story is a clear example of how change often starts with the smallest moments—a word of encouragement, a letter of support, a simple act of recognition. These moments create ripples that transform lives.

At Forward Edge, we believe every child deserves to be seen, known, and loved. Because when a child realizes their worth, they don’t just change their own story—they light the way for others to follow.

Want to be a part of a child’s transformation? Learn more about sponsoring a child through Forward Edge today.
Child Nutrition

Nourishing Bodies, Transforming Lives: The Impact of Meals in Kenya

In the heart of Kenya, where many children face the daily struggle of hunger, a simple meal can be life-changing. At Forward Edge, we’re not just filling plates—we’re filling lives with hope, strength, and opportunity. Our programs in Kenya provide nourishing meals that empower children to focus in school, grow in their faith, and dream of a brighter future. Discover how something as simple as a meal is transforming lives and bringing lasting change to communities across Kenya.

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community development

Why We Should Involve Children in Development

In his book, “Empowering Children”, former Forward Edge board member, Dr. Ravi Jayakaran, shares the importance of involving children in the process of their own development. When a community invests its resources in its children, it invests in its own future. Just as Forward Edge values all children and believes

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christian

Christmas and Salvation

Our children’s programs had wonderful Christmas programs full of food, music, celebration, and the true meaning of Christmas – in fact at least 13 people were saved through these programs! Oaxaca Haiti Kenya Uganda Ghana Cuba Oaxaca Haiti Kenya Uganda Ghana Cuba In Oaxaca, families were invited for a delicious

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child sponsorship

New Uganda Children’s Program

We are so excited to be starting 2019 off with the addition of a brand new Forward Edge ministry location. Our newest Child Sponsorship program, Light A Candle, serves 400 children in some of the most difficult areas of Kampala, Uganda. Kampala comprises 3.5 million people within the city limits,

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Transform a Child's Life Through Sponsorship

Habari (hello), my name is Terry

  • location

    Kenya

  • 14 yrs. old

    04-23-2011

Entered the program: March 2023

Terry lives with her grandmother and two siblings in a three-room wood house with an outdoor kitchen and pit latrine. They have access to electricity and they fetch water from a nearby tap.

Terry’s mother passed away in 2018, leaving her and her older brother and sister in the care of their elderly grandmother. They rely on the generosity of others to help provide for them. Terry suffers with eye allergies that require treatment.

Sponsorship Level What's this?

Three $38 sponsorships are needed to cover the complete holistic care of one child. Cover one, two, or three sponsorships.