Starting a school has been a meaningful journey filled with challenges that tested our love and commitment. One of the biggest challenges we faced was the complex process of getting permits from the local authorities. At the same time, we are dealing with unrealistic expectations of the community, who were eager to see our school become a reality. Although we explained to the community that progress takes time, people wanted quick results. The ongoing doubt and skepticism from the community threatened our passion and resolve. In those moments of doubt, we turned to God in prayer and sought His guidance and comfort to remind us of why we were there in the first place. He has answered our prayers in the most unexpected ways.

Last June, just before we were about to distribute the students’ report cards to their parents, we got a visit. In a surprising turn of events, the Regent, the Head of the Provincial Department of Education, and their team from the provincial capital, arrived unannounced. Looking back, it’s clear that the timing was not a coincidence. What was supposed to be an ordinary day turned into “proof” to the community that we never wavered in our commitment to build the school and get the support we needed, even when it seemed slow. That special day gave us a boost of confidence. God indeed was working in the background!

Moreover, at the beginning of this year, we received an A-accreditation status granted by the Ministry of Education. We view this as a special love gift from God, the fruit of our hard work and patience. We keep reminding ourselves that we must remain humble, continue to stand in faith, and stay committed to our purpose to bless children by sharing Christ’s love.

We can’t help but shed tears of gratitude when we think that even in the face of doubt and criticism, God’s love and faithfulness are unshakable.

Our heartfelt thanks go out to all those who have supported us. Every step of this journey is a testament to the incredible power of your unwavering love and prayers.

By Maria, TransformNation Intern & school principal on Gapanau Island

***

Photo top: Maria (sitting in the middle giving “thumbs up”) with her TransformNation teaching team and their students.
Photo above: Students and parents celebrating Family Day in front of the new school building