Club Rainbow’s 2022 Education Award recipients Sharvani and Raphael were pleasantly surprised and over the moon when they were notified about their academic milestones and achievement. While this academic journey was mentioned to have been stressful, our recipients have pushed themselves to not give up, and instead, strive to excel and be outstanding.
Club Rainbow is pleased that this Education Award serves as a symbol and reminder for Sharvani to fight on and be confident, because as Sharvani mentioned, “everyone is born differently for a purpose”. This grit has been backed up by Sharvani’s caregiver Mdm Mageletchumei, who constantly reminds him that he is not alone, encourages, and supports him in his studies with the necessary facilities, time and even an evening remedy of healing music in order for him to thrive and be comfortable.
Mdm Carol, Raphael’s caregiver also believes that the Education Award gives extra encouragement, recognizing improvements made by children like her son. While Raphael faced some obstacles through his learning journey, it was through Club Rainbow’s play therapy sessions that Mdm Carol was more informed about Raphael’s need for greater structure and discipline, equipping her with the knowledge and wisdom to better guide Raphael. Together with Raphael’s determination, this has pushed him to attain this academic achievement.
Mdm Carol also mentioned her gratefulness for Club Rainbow’s caregiver sessions that were personally beneficial for herself, where she got the opportunity to engage in various new and creative activities such as art therapy, tea sessions and even embroidery. Just like how she has been blessed by Club Rainbow’s services, her hopes and wishes are for Raphael to be a blessing to others and to give back and volunteer with Club Rainbow when he is older.
Club Rainbow recognizes the importance of such caregiver support, and Mdm Mageletchumei has also echoed such sentiments, advising parents to constantly affirm themselves, and to never shortchange their efforts and love poured into their children’s lives.
Mdm Mageletchumei strongly believes that no child’s education should be jeopardized under any circumstances, and advocates for parents to speak up and fight for the rights of their children. This way, children will gain more confidence in themselves. Mdm Carol’s thoughts also resonate with this and advise parents to manage their expectations of children, and most importantly to not be stressed out, as it is ultimately a journey and process at the end of the day.