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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
2021 has been an incredible year. At Forward Edge, our hearts swell with gratitude for all God has done. His awesome faithfulness through another difficult year has been such a blessing to witness. Children around the world are discovering their true worth and purpose and growing in intimacy with Jesus,
It started with a simple nudge—a last-minute feeling that I was forgetting something important. Rushing through the airport, I couldn’t shake the urge to buy a Bible. I didn’t know why, or who it was for, but I trusted the feeling. A week later, in a small village in Ghana, that Bible found its way into the hands of Talata, a girl who had never heard of Jesus. This is the story of how God’s quiet whispers and a small act of obedience became part of something much bigger than we could have imagined.
Many of us have seen profile photos of children in sponsorship programs; they are often solemn, sad and sometimes down-right angry looking. I know I have thought at times, “Wow, that poor child must be so unhappy!” But then I come across a video from the same organization in which
Someone Thought of Me? Did you know that a simple note can change the trajectory of a child’s life? It’s true! For children living in poverty, life is challenging and filled with hardships. They may feel overlooked, forgotten, and alone. But when they receive a note, it shows that they
10 yrs. old
Entered the program: October 2025
Teki lives with his parents, his two younger brothers, and his paternal grandmother in a house which was built in 2024 with help from his father’s friends and other community members. Their former house was so old and run down, it was almost uninhabitable.
Teki’s father works as an interior house painter and his mother stays home to care for the family. Teki’s family is from a Muslim background but they are open to Christianity.
Plus bonus group fundraising ideas!
