After an earthquake struck Sydney’s village in Oaxaca, Malala Fund supporters stepped up.
Malala met 15-year-old Sydney in Mexico City this summer. When they spoke, Sydney told Malala about barriers that keep girls from getting an education in Oaxaca, Mexico.
In September, when an 8.1-magnitude earthquake devastated many communities in Mexico, it became even harder for girls to keep up with school.
Malala Fund is helping Sydney and other girls in her community receive extra tutoring, so they don’t fall behind in their classes.
Sydney shares her story.
A few months ago, an earthquake struck my village in Oaxaca, Mexico. Many homes are still damaged — including mine.
At first, I worried about falling behind in my studies. But thanks to Malala Fund supporters, my friends and I will get additional tutoring and support while our community recovers.
Going to school was already difficult before the earthquake. Poverty, early marriage and machismo culture force so many girls I know out of the classroom.
I had to convince my grandfather to send me to school. Now I speak on a local radio station to help encourage other families to allow their daughters to study.
I want to go to medical school and become the first pediatrician in my village. Many people I know doubt I can do it because I am a girl — I will prove them wrong.
Malala Fund champions every girl’s right to 12 years of free, safe, quality education. Will you help ensure every girl gets the education she deserves?
