A group of girls in a classroom sitting at desks
Raphaely, second from the front

Early Life

“My name is Raphaely. I live in a small village in Maranhão, Brazil. My life at home is very sad because right after my birth, my mother left me with my grandmother. Until now, I did not understand the reason. My grandmother is a poor widow, aside from me, she also raised two more grandchildren. I help her on our little farm from which we earn a living. When it is time to harvest açai berry I go to the neighbourhood to look for some berries to harvest and sell them to help the family bill.

Life at school

The reason why I dreamed of studying in Girlstown is to help support my family, especially my grandmother. I am very happy here in the Village for Children, I have many friends and the Sisters really love me.

I am learning many things. I love to draw and paint. I am studying very hard because I want to be a lawyer someday. I am grateful to our beloved friends and kind-hearted benefactors. Because of your generosity, many children like me are very happy and safe. May God bless you all!”

Irmas documentary trailer

Raphaely's story and grandmother features in the upcoming Irmas documentary