My name is Kanku Ntumba. I’m from Lubumbashi, DRC. I’m 46 years old, a widow, and a mother of seven. After my husband died in a traffic accident, I was left alone, uneducated, and without any support. I couldn’t read, write, or do basic math. To survive, I sat outside a church and begged for money just to feed my children.

One day, the church pastor told me about Alfalit’s literacy program. I was shocked to learn the classes were free. For the first time in years, I felt hope. I attended class three times a week while still begging on the side. After nine months of hard work, I graduated with a 71% and received a certificate that proved I was capable.

The pastor introduced me to the director of a private school. He offered me a job tutoring children. It changed everything. I could finally pay rent, feed my family, and send my children to school. I went from being a beggar to a teacher.

Today, I’m proud to be working at my church, restoring my dignity and giving my children a better future. This transformation began with the gift of education—and for that, I thank Alfalit with all my heart.