Former sponsored child studies to become a doctor to help his community

Helping one child access education can have a profound impact on a whole neighbourhood. That’s what Carlos, a medical student in Paraguay, believes, as he immerses himself in his university studies, fulfilling his dream to heal others and help his community.

“I’ve imagined becoming a doctor since I was a child,” he says. “I like to help people, especially those in need. So I made an effort to take good notes in school and do well so I could achieve my goal.”

Having a Children Believe sponsor throughout his childhood made a deep impression on the 19-year-old. Receiving letters from the man who sponsored him was inspiring.

“You feel the care and affection,” Carlos says. “You know there is a person who believes in you, who supports you. We had a very good relationship, and even though I haven’t met him in person, I got to know him through his letters.”

And, Carlos’ teachers also encouraged him to be responsible, to persevere and never give up on his goals. During COVID-19, school became difficult to access, but he received assistance from Children Believe to overcome the barriers.

“Computer classes (facilitated by Children Believe) helped me a lot,” he says. “Before, I did not know anything about computers, but now I know all I need to participate in online classes.”

Coming from a humble family, school was a financial challenge for Carlos. But sponsorship provided school supplies, uniforms and clothes.

In a country where only three-out-of-five youth reach post-secondary schooling, Carlos is fortunate to have the opportunity to continue his studies. Children Believe, together with local partner ONG Crecer, work in Carlos’ community so children like him can access education.

Together, the two organizations strengthen the skills of teachers and families, provide resources to schools and improve infrastructure in classrooms.

“Sponsors give us hope that we, as young people can help other people, too,” Carlos says. “I dream about completing university, achieving a specialization and opening a clinic where I can work and provide employment for other people.”

Learn more about how to sponsor a child or teen from Paraguay today, and help a community thrive.

About Children Believe

Children Believe works globally to empower children to dream fearlessly, stand up for what they believe in — and be heard. For 60+ years, we’ve brought together brave young dreamers, caring supporters and partners, and unabashed idealists. Together, we’re driven by a common belief: creating access to education — inside and outside of classrooms — is the most powerful tool children can use to change their world.

About Childfund Alliance:

A member of ChildFund Alliance, Children Believe is part of a global network of child-focused development organizations working to create opportunities for children and youth, their families and communities. ChildFund helps nearly 23-million children and their families in 70 countries overcome poverty and underlying conditions that prevent children from achieving their full potential. We work to end violence against children; provide expertise in emergencies and disasters to ease the harmful impact on children and their communities; and engage children and youth to create lasting change and elevate their voices in decisions that affect their lives.