Knowledge Hub
2020 has been a challenging year for everyone around the globe, but it has been devastating for the world’s poorest and most vulnerable people, many of whom are children.
While it may be hard for us to imagine what life is like in some of the world's poorest and most vulnerable communities, one thing we know for sure is that children are children, no matter where you are. And this goes for their hopes and dreams too! Children all over the world have similar dreams and ambitions in life, but not always the same opportunities.
Existing threats such as political conflicts, an increase in severity and frequency of natural disasters and a rise in global hunger have been exacerbated by the coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic. The latest UN report warns that up to 235 million people will need humanitarian assistance next year – a 40% increase on the number at the start of 2020. Caught up in the middle of these humanitarian crises are millions of children, who may be unable to fulfil their dreams or reach their potential if their situation doesn't change. We asked some of the children we work with overseas to draw what they want to be when they grow up.
From Syria to Somalia, from teacher to fashion designer, we want to share those dreams and ambitions with you.
I want to travel all over the world and take people to see the world too.
15-year-old Fatuma* was born in Mombasa Kenya after her family fled from Somalia due to conflict. They returned to Somalia last year. She has 3 brothers and 5 sisters.
During her stay in Kenya, their home was very near an airport. During her free time, Fatuma used to watch aeroplanes taking off and landing. Fartun said, “ever since I was young, I used to dream of becoming a pilot”.
However, Fatuma's family doesn't have very much money, and she worries that they may not be able to financially support her to reach her dreams. As such, Fatuma appreciates Concern’s continued support of her education. She is happy to be given educational materials such as exercise books, pen, hygiene kits, and sanitary pads. Fartun hopes to perform well in her studies and benefit from scholarship opportunities that government awards to children who perform well in their exams.
When asked why she wanted to be a Pilot, Fartun said, “I want to travel all over the world and take people to see the world too.”
*names changed to protect the identity of the individual
I’d like to be a doctor for TB who treats poorer families and those cannot afford medical expenses when they are in need.
17-year-old Mubarak* lives with his family in Somalia.
When he grows up, Mubarak wants to be a doctor, specialising in TB, to support poor families. Mubarak said: "I’d like to be a doctor who treats poorer families and those cannot afford medical expenses when they are in need. For a long time, I have been dreaming to be a doctor because my grandpa died without treatment of TB.”
Mubarak performs well in all subjects, especially science. He is the most polite student of his class as mentioned by his school headteacher.
“I put emphasis on science lessons to learn more about diseases that are common in Somalia. Also, how the diseases can be prevented and how they can be treated” said Mubarak.
However, he is most worried about how to make his dream true because of expensive university education which his family may not be able to afford.
*names changed to protect the identity of the individual
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