From a child in need in Jamaica to a social worker helping others
SOS Children’s Villages provides a nurturing environment for the most vulnerable children needing care and protection, offering them a place they can call home. Moesha, now 25, embodies resilience, a quality strengthened by the dedicated support of SOS Children’s Villages, which played a crucial role in her formative years.
Moesha’s journey reflects the shared experience of many children who have blossomed despite the hardship of family separation at a young age.
“My journey in care began when I became a ward of the state at around three years old. During my formative years, I was housed at SOS Children’s Villages, where the foundation of my character was developed. I attended kindergarten, primary school, and then high school. SOS Children’s Villages is where I spent my childhood and my early teens, and it was home.”
Moesha often noticed the small differences between herself and her classmates. Her school bag and shoes might have differed from the latest styles, and her lunch was simpler than others. While friends enjoyed a variety of snacks, she made do with a single biscuit.
“My hair clips and hairstyles may not have been trendy, but my hair was always neatly braided. SOS Children’s Villages ensured I never went without the essentials. Its efforts to provide books, uniforms, snacks, lunch, and stationery were imperative to fostering my steadfastness and resilience. These experiences taught me to appreciate what I had, even if it seemed modest compared to what other children around me had. It also underscored the importance of focusing on what truly mattered: my education and personal growth.”
Having reliable school attire and shoes provided Moesha with more than just physical comfort; they instilled a sense of pride and belonging. Consistently meeting her academic needs laid a solid foundation for her education and personal development. Beyond material support, the care she received at SOS Children’s Villages fostered a sense of responsibility, teaching her the importance of being prepared and presentable—lessons that continue to resonate in her life today.
Education is a central focus for SOS Children’s Villages, ensuring that each child attends school and has the tools and resources to thrive academically. As Moesha progressed into adulthood, she realized that this early emphasis on education had been a pivotal motivator, instilling in her the importance of learning and obtaining a formal education.
“Despite not always having the fanciest clothes or material possessions, my SOS mothers also taught me the invaluable lesson of discipline. All these lessons shaped my approach to challenges and setbacks, cultivating the resilience that continues to guide me personally and professionally. Reflecting on these foundational lessons, I’ve gained a deeper appreciation for the supportive environment provided by SOS Children's Villages. It was more than just a place to live; it was a nurturing community that set me on a path toward success.”
Determination and a drive for self-improvement have helped Moesha overcome many obstacles and become her guiding principles. The support and resources she received from SOS Children's Villages instilled a mindset of perseverance and adaptability, enhancing her ability to navigate and embrace life's challenges and opportunities.
“Today, I stand confidently as a practicing social worker—a dream realized. Many others have also achieved their goals, thanks to SOS Children’s Villages.
Moesha is employed at the Restorative Justice Branch of the Ministry of Justice, specializing in dispute resolution, engaging with and supporting individuals in constructively navigating conflicts, reinforcing her passion for helping others find solutions to their challenges.
From a child in need to a social worker helping others, it is a testament to the power of nurturing care. SOS Children’s Villages remains committed to empowering many more like her, one young life at a time.