Overcoming Challenges, Cultivating Transformation: Luíza's Inspiring Journey at Baluarte
Luiza arrived at Baluarte with courage and determination. Carrying her ADD diagnosis and a baggage of challenges with her, she was faced with a journey that would not only change her life, but also inspire everyone around her.
A Journey of Overcoming:
Luíza, aged 13, faced an invisible battle: words with complex syllables were indecipherable riddles, and mathematical operations seemed like a maze with no way out. But, with the unshakable confidence of the Baluarte team, it embarked on a reinforcement path on Tuesdays and Thursdays, dedicated to exploring unexplored frontiers.
Awakening the Love of Reading:
Luíza, initially shy, found a refuge in the classes. Through playful and intentional approaches, she began to decipher letters and words, like someone who unravels mysteries. What was challenging turned into pleasure, and the pages of the books came to life before her eyes. Through reading, she discovered a new universe, full of possibilities.
From Shy to Inspiring:
As barriers dissipated, Luiza emerged as a transformative force. Not only has she overcome the shame and self-doubt of her initial journey, she has also become an inspiring leader. In front of her peers, she read in literary circles in a firm voice, solved problems on the board and happily shared her achievements. Her journey not only changed her, but it lit the way for others as well.
The Stronghold’s Refuge:
Luíza witnessed the power of love and education at Baluarte. Here, she found a place of support, an oasis of learning and a sanctuary of growth. At Baluarte, Luiza’s journey was mixed with the greater mission: to transform lives through education, paving the way for a future full of possibilities.
Luiza’s story is a living inspiration, a testament to perseverance and the power of education. It reminds us that with determination, love and support, we can turn challenges into opportunities, fears into courage and uncertainties into triumphs. Baluarte is more than a place of learning; it is a beacon of hope, a catalyst for transformation. Together, we shape success stories and bring to light the limitless potential within each of us
Dream come true, life transformed and a bright future: Jujuba's inspiring journey
At the age of 4, Jujuba captivated our team by sharing her huge dream: “Going to Brazil to get my hair done and see the beach.” His outstanding expressiveness, impeccable communication and remarkable talent immediately won the hearts of our team. His mother, Flávia, facing serious health problems and bedridden, expressed her deep pain by saying: “I don’t see any prospects for life.
A Journey of Overcoming:
Luíza, aged 13, faced an invisible battle: words with complex syllables were indecipherable riddles, and mathematical operations seemed like a maze with no way out. But, with the unshakable confidence of the Baluarte team, it embarked on a reinforcement path on Tuesdays and Thursdays, dedicated to exploring unexplored frontiers.
Awakening the Love of Reading:
Luíza, initially shy, found a refuge in the classes. Through playful and intentional approaches, she began to decipher letters and words, like someone who unravels mysteries. What was challenging turned into pleasure, and the pages of the books came to life before her eyes. Through reading, she discovered a new universe, full of possibilities.
From Shy to Inspiring:
As barriers dissipated, Luiza emerged as a transformative force. Not only has she overcome the shame and self-doubt of her initial journey, she has also become an inspiring leader. In front of her peers, she read in literary circles in a firm voice, solved problems on the board and happily shared her achievements. Her journey not only changed her, but it lit the way for others as well.
The Stronghold’s Refuge:
Luíza witnessed the power of love and education at Baluarte. Here, she found a place of support, an oasis of learning and a sanctuary of growth. At Baluarte, Luiza’s journey was mixed with the greater mission: to transform lives through education, paving the way for a future full of possibilities.
Luiza’s story is a living inspiration, a testament to perseverance and the power of education. It reminds us that with determination, love and support, we can turn challenges into opportunities, fears into courage and uncertainties into triumphs. Baluarte is more than a place of learning; it is a beacon of hope, a catalyst for transformation. Together, we shape success stories and bring to light the limitless potential within each of us
From Darkness to Bright Stage: Joshua's Determination and His Journey with the Bulwark
In the midst of extreme situations, Josué and his six brothers lived in a house with a zinc roof, lacking even the basic essentials – water, light and food. It was during a visit from her aunt, who also lived in a vulnerable situation, that a decision was made to take in one of these children with the aim of extending her hand and cultivating a better future. This aunt, who once missed a significant opportunity for a transformative life abroad during her own youth, now sought to open all doors for her chosen child, young Josué.
Upon moving to the Capollo II neighborhood, where the headquarters of Baluarte in Angola are located, Josué decided to embrace the project. Fueled by an unshakable passion for all creative pursuits, he begged his aunt to grant him passage into the world of art and dance. With her consent, Josué plunged headlong into all possible activities, his story and determination reached co-founder Jonnes Queiroz, who chose to adopt Josué as his son, now residing at the Baluarte shelter.
The years passed until the tour to Brazil came up. For Josué’s aunt, Marcela, this marked a monumental moment – a chance to witness the boy commanding huge stages representing the institution. Marcela herself started to be assisted by Baluarte, and until today she maintains an unshakable bond with the boy Josué, who grows up full of opportunities and with a promising future.
Their journey unfolds like an inspiring parable, proof that, in the face of adversity, steadfast determination and an outstretched embrace, even the most trying circumstances can yield to the glow of an outstretched hand.
Aninha: Hidden by the Lord, spared from a massacre.
Meet Aninha, a brave soul just 5 years old, whose life took a harrowing turn amid the aftermath of a devastating massacre that engulfed her village. Amidst the chaos, her parents and siblings met a tragic fate, their lives cut short at the hands of violence. However, amid this heartbreaking tragedy, a glimmer of hope emerged.
Hidden inside a bag of onions, young Aninha’s life was miraculously spared. A casual concealment that shielded her from the attention of the rebels who wreaked havoc on her village. Resilient and tenacious, Aninha received security and healing. The moment she was discovered, her journey to recovery began with medical care, receiving essential vitamins and the expert care only a hospital could provide. For 15 days, she was enveloped in a cocoon of care, nourishing her body and spirit.
Today, Aninha’s life takes a new direction, guided by the affectionate embrace of Baluarte. Under our tutelage, she has found refuge within the walls of Bulwark House, a sanctuary where her indomitable spirit can flourish. Aninha’s life trajectory is nothing short of a miracle – a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the unwavering dedication of those around her.