Olivia is only 10 years old, but already supports her mother and sister from the small field of corn and potatoes that she tends when she isn’t in school.

Olivia’s father died from AIDS when she was 5 years old and now she cares for her mother who is also sick.

This feisty little girl lives in the small village of Bugonzi, and was chosen to be part of the GCCI project. Because of that, she gets to attend school – the only child in her family to do so. If you ask, she’ll tell you learning English is one of the best parts of her education. Although Olivia has four other siblings (one brother and three sisters), only one sister still lives at home with Olivia and their mother. As the older child, Olivia is responsible for caring for her mother and little sister as well as tending the field.

On weekdays, Olivia walks the two miles (each way) to school. On the weekend, she walks over four miles to the main roadway to sell what corn and potatoes she’s been able to harvest to passers-by. She uses the money to buy a little extra food for her mother and sister.

Olivia has been chosen to be part of the SIFA Africa Choir that will be touring the eastern part of the United States for six months this spring and summer. She loves to sing and perform and is very excited about helping to raise money for other children like herself in Uganda. When Olivia smiles her face lights up and her eyes twinkle with the knowledge that because of your help, she will have a future.