Early life
“My name is Sthefanny, and my story is one of faith, hope, and transformation. I grew up in a small town in Brazil in a very poor family. I have four siblings and my mother raised us on her own.
Life was incredibly hard, and I often saw my mum crying because of our struggles. Yet, despite all the struggles, I held onto my dreams, even though they seemed so far away.
Everything changed when I met the Sisters of Mary while they were visiting my hometown. For the first time, I felt a spark of hope and excitement.
The Sisters of Mary and World Villages for Children were able to offer me a place where I could get a good education and feel safe – a place where my dreams could become possible.”
Life at school
“The years I spent with the Sisters of Mary in Brasilia were the best years of my life. Their teachings became my lifelong guide, shaping my values and decisions.
The education and support I received from the Sisters of Mary were life-changing, not just for me but for my entire family. Their influence enabled me to pursue higher education at a reputable university, opening doors I never thought possible. And more than that, I also carry with me the lessons of love, faith, and perseverance that Fr Al and the Sisters of Mary instilled in us.”
Life after school
Today, Sthefanny is living and working in the UK, in Devon. She is pursuing a career that she loves and is ambitious for her future. She says “living and working in Devon, England, allows me to support my family in Brazil and share my story wherever I go.”
She has helped her mother with financial support and continues to help her brothers and sisters by paying for their education and medical care, to ensure they can lift themselves out of poverty. One of her sisters, Ana Clara, has followed in her footsteps, and has just finished school with the Sisters in Brasilia.
Sthefanny has long term ambitions to use her qualifications to work for the United Nations. She says “as I work towards my dreams and support my family, I carry with me the values and love that Fr Al and the Sisters of Mary have bestowed upon me. Their influence is the foundation of my strength, guiding me to live a life of faith, love, and purpose.”
