I remember when I first met Sophia about five years ago. She along with her two younger siblings were brought to the Touch A Life Care Center to live. She immediately caught my attention with her infectious smile and energetic personality.
I pulled her aside one day to engage her in a private conversation asking all the usual questions. We chatted for a few minutes and I was pleasantly surprised how well she spoke English since she hadn’t been attending school regularly. I then grabbed a few books and of course she was an excellent reader not missing a word.
I later asked her what she wanted to be when she grew up. She said, “I want to be the Director of Touch A Life. I want your job. I want to wear high heels.” I busted out in laughter and immediately fell in love with her. Oh my sweet Sophia, I look forward to the day when I will gladly pass you the title of Director along with a brand new pair of red heels.
Every trip I take to Ghana the staff and kids know there will be a full day of cleaning and organizing so they have learned to just roll with it. On my last trip we were cleaning out the art center and I found a big plastic tub of yarn. I knew Sophia had been teaching some of the younger kids to knit and crochet so I gave her all the yarn supplies. She was thrilled. The next morning I pulled up to the care center and Sophia came running towards me smiling from ear to ear with my gift. She had crocheted me a purse. I think we can all agree that a young woman who can create a handbag in less than 24 hours certainly has the skill sets to be director of a non-profit. Go forth and be Sophia, sweet child you are enough.
-Ma Pam