I Refused to Learn — Until My Son Needed Me

My name is Mariquinha João Manuel, I’m from Angola.  I am 59 years old, married, and today I want to share a testimony of deep gratitude.

Before joining Alfalit, I faced constant prejudice because of my age and because I couldn’t read or do basic math. I couldn’t start a business, and every day I felt ashamed, -though I was too proud to admit it. My friends encouraged me to learn, but I always refused, hiding behind my fear and pride.

One day, everything changed. My son came home from school while we had visitors. He handed me his homework, asking for help. I took his notebook, looked at the exercises, and realized I didn’t understand a single word. In my embarrassment, I got angry and sent him to his room. The truth is, I wasn’t upset with him — I was deeply ashamed of myself.

That night, I couldn’t stop thinking about what happened. I realized I needed to change, not just for me but for my children. I wanted to help them with their homework and be a source of strength for them.

A neighbor told me about Alfalit, and though I was hesitant, I promised I would try it for one month. After just a few days, I knew I had found the right place. I committed fully to my studies, stayed for five years, and proudly completed the sixth-grade level.

Today, I am a new woman. I own my own business and can support my children in ways I never thought possible.

Thank you, Alfalit, for transforming my life and restoring my dignity. You brought hope to someone who thought it was too late to learn. Now, I can read, write, and do math — and, most importantly, I can help my children and stand proudly in my community.