Hand in hand: Siblings in Ethiopia grow up in care together

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Naol* and Beki* have known only one home. They grew up at SOS Children’s Villages Ethiopia, in Jimma, after their mother died in childbirth, with no other family able to care for them. Their earliest memories are filled with laughter, warmth, and the unconditional love and support of their SOS family.

Raised together by their caregiver, Bizunesh, the twins quickly adapted to village life, forming an inseparable bond that has only strengthened over time.

A bond since birth  

From their earliest days, the twins found comfort in each other. As toddlers, they would walk hand in hand around the village, their giggles echoing through the pathways. Bizunesh fondly remembers how they would fall asleep curled up next to each other, reassured by their sibling’s presence. “They have always had a special bond,” she says. “No matter what, they face everything together.”

Their connection extends beyond sibling closeness. From childhood games to schoolwork, they have always supported and motivated each other. "During exams, we study together, helping one another understand difficult subjects," they share. Their bond extends beyond academics; when one falls ill, the other insists on accompanying them to the clinic, offering comfort in times of distress.

The SOS Care Promise  

Bizunesh tells us how keeping siblings together in care promotes a sense of belonging, identity, and security. One of the core principles of SOS Children’s Villages is to ensure that siblings in alternative care remain together, in a family environment where they can grow, support one another, and build lifelong bonds.

Now 12, Naol and Beki are living proof of that principle. Their relationship has evolved from childhood playmates to each other’s biggest supporters. Naol, a talented artist, teaches his sister how to draw, while Beki, known for her discipline, inspires her brother to manage his time better. They continue to be each other’s cheerleaders and protectors.

Core principles from the publication: SOS Care Promise: How SOS Children’s Villages ensures the best care for children and young people 

Image	CHILD: Every child is unique and respected  We recognize children's potentials, guiding and accompanying them on their path to becoming independent and contributing members of their society.
Image	PARENT: Every child needs a caring and stable parent  We work to ensure that children can experience a reliable relationship with a caregiver based on love, respect and security.
Image	FAMILY: Every child grows up in a supportive family  We support families to stay together. If children cannot grow up with their family of origin, we support them to form lifelong bonds in an alternative family environment while ensuring that siblings stay together.
Image	COMMUNITY: Every child is part of a safe and supportive community  We assist families to connect across their community, share experiences, support one another and work together in order to create a positive environment for children and young people to develop.

Bizunesh has been a guiding force in their lives, ensuring they grow up with strong values and a sense of responsibility. "She always encourages us to focus on our studies and develop life skills," Naol says. He recalls an important lesson learned the hard way: ignoring her warning about playing with fire and getting burned. “Since then, I have come to understand that her advice always comes from a place of care,” he reflects.

Dreams for the future  

Looking ahead, the twins have big dreams. Beki aspires to become a doctor, hoping to help those who cannot afford treatment, and Naol envisions a future as an artist, using his paintings to showcase Ethiopian history and culture. No matter where life takes them, they are determined to stay close and support each other.

Family is not just about biology, but about the love and support that shape a child’s future. For Naol and Beki, their caregiver and their bond as siblings have been the foundation of their strength, proving that together, they can overcome anything.

Help more siblings like Naol and Beki grow up together in a safe, loving environment.

*Names changed to protect privacy.