NEWS FROM UNIVIDA, BRASIL

4 Nov

I Could Really Be A Doctor?

Ellie is a beautiful little 7 year old, in her first year at The University of Life.

Each morning she arrives with her big smile and big personality which brings us all plenty of fun!

Ellie has not grown up with story books or toys to stimulate her imagination or teach her about the world.

However, thanks to The University of Life, she is now discovering the world of literature and what it means to be able to read and write. Ellie’s world is coming alive and it’s a privilege to be apart of the process.

Ellie says that her favourite lesson is on the computers with our new IT teacher Abner.

She is not afraid to ask questions and share her thoughts as she connects what she is learning with her immediate reality. Recently she suddenly exclaimed out loud in the middle of the classroom, “Do you really think I can manage to be a doctor?”

Ellie is honest and genuine and we are so happy that she is a part of our daily lives. Please pray for her as she grows in wisdom and knowledge.

Abner, The University of Life's new IT Teacher

Meet Abner

My name is Abner, I’m 24 and I have just got married. It’s only in the last few months that I found out about the work of The University of Life here in Fortaleza, but I have fallen in love with the vision of this organisation.

When I arrived, I felt an immediate connection to the team of staff who demonstrated to me how they work together and provide such a great opportunity to children like Ellie.

As the IT teacher, my role is to familiarise the younger students with a computer and then use it to support their maths, Portuguese and general learning.

I feel comfortable in this work environment where I can ask questions, learn and use my initiative to help.

Even though we have some difficult students, I am enjoying this new challenge and the amazing opportunity I have to make a difference in the lives of these children.

Thank you for your warm welcome and support.

Thanks

It’s with tremendous gratitude that we can report back to you about our campaign for a new oven at The University of Life.

Thanks to your generosity and action we have been able to purchase a new cooker in the kitchen!

The process of installing the extractor fan has also begun, so that the kitchen will be a more comfortable place to cook in and eat in. This requires a little more work and the adjustment of the adjacent work surfaces.

We wish to thank everyone who has made this possible.

UNiViDA is funded by generous individuals and churches. Thanks for your support.

Become a Dreambuilder - click here to set up a standing order

Cristina with the new oven in The University of Life's Kitchen.

Searching For Sustainability

One month ago we leaned of the impressive efforts of one of our year 9 students, who, of her own will used social media to organise a clean up day in her community. Impressed by the contrast between the clean grounds of The University of Life and the dirty streets immediately outside, Lana successfully mobilised over 30 friends and family members to help. Our congratulations to her and all those who participated.

Solar Power

Talking about the environment, the project has recently received two bids for the installation of solar

panels to produce clean energy for The University of Life.

If you would like to know more about this, or help us find funding sources for the investment required, please email Ruth Marques. ruth.marques@univida.org

Countdown to Christmas
With rehearsals for our Christmas Cantata already underway, it’s time to get ready for our busiest time of the year.

Upcoming events include the arrival of another mission team on the 10th November, our family lunch on the 15th November, and our Christmas concert on 13th December.

Safeguarding Training
Ben and Talita Bentley (top middle without certificates) delivered a day of Safeguarding Training to staff at The University of Life. The training was developed by UNiViDA in partnership with Anti-slavery charity Hope For Justice, based in Manchester. Talita is Brazilian and lives in Chesterfield with her husband Ben and their two children.