By Fatoumata Kone
In the quiet village of N’Tentou Kouralamini, a young boy named Bourama Samake is proving that determination and education can change lives. Bourama is an ambitious and courageous student with a dream: to graduate high school and become a police officer. Growing up in a rural area, Bourama knows firsthand the obstacles that many students in Africa face. Financial resources are scarce, and the cost of education can be a significant burden for families. “Education is very important,” Bourama explains. “For those of us living in rural areas without financial means, studying allows us to learn and create opportunities to lift ourselves out of poverty.”
For Bourama, even something as simple as getting to school was a challenge. His high school is three kilometers away from his home, and his mother worked tirelessly to grow and sell peanuts to buy him a bicycle. However, after selling her crops, she couldn’t raise enough money for the bicycle and was left feeling anxious about how Bourama would continue his education.
The Gift That Changed Everything
Everything changed when Bourama received the Inspiration Scholarship from Mali Rising. The scholarship provided him with the financial support he needed to thrive in school. With the funds, Bourama was able to purchase school uniforms, supplies, shoes, and a bicycle to make the long journey to school easier.“The scholarship helped me so much,” Bourama says. “It brought joy not only to me but also to my mother, who was overjoyed that I could continue my studies without worrying about the cost.” With the right tools and support, Bourama has been able to focus on his education and excel in his studies. He is now more motivated than ever to achieve his dreams.
A Vision for the Future
Bourama’s dream is to become a police officer. He admires their uniforms and is passionate about securing his country, which has suffered deeply from terrorism. But his aspirations don’t stop there. Bourama hopes to one day give back to his community by supporting other students in need.
“If I earn a lot of money in the future, I want to pay school fees for students and provide them with supplies like backpacks, notebooks, books, bicycles, clothes, and shoes,” he shares. “I want to encourage them to study and show them that education can transform their lives.”
A Heartfelt Thank You
Bourama is deeply grateful for the donors of Mali Rising who have helped him continue his education. “Thank you for contributing to my future,” he says. “I am determined and motivated to help my younger brothers and sisters, just as you have helped me.”
Bourama’s story is a powerful reminder of the transformative impact of education and the importance of supporting students in underserved communities. With his drive and determination, there is no doubt that Bourama will achieve his dreams and inspire others to do the same.
