Patrick’s Journey to Hope and Healing
At eleven years old, Patrick chose the uncertainty of the streets over a home that no longer felt safe. What began as a fight for survival would later become a journey toward purpose.

A member of the Executive Committee (Management Team) at Ashesi, Araba has 20 years’ experience in scholarships and grant management, as well as recruitment of students across Africa, including high achieving students from low-income backgrounds. As the Project Lead for the Mastercard Scholars Program at Ashesi, she witnessed the immense impact on the MCF Scholars as they engaged with FOA and the street children. Also working with TK, she witnessed his commitment to making a change in the lives of Africa youth, hence her willingness to serve on the board of FOA.
Every moment a child is off the streets and in the classroom is another moment for the Future of Africa.
At eleven years old, Patrick chose the uncertainty of the streets over a home that no longer felt safe. What began as a fight for survival would later become a journey toward purpose.
From surviving on the streets to studying General Arts in senior high school, Vera’s journey is one of resilience. Once a young girl searching for belonging, she’s now building a future filled with hope and purpose.
In August we hosted our Fresh Start Ceremony and it was one of those days that reminded us why we do this work. We celebrated exciting new beginnings of youth who once spent years on the street without hope and purpose.