February 14, 2025
In the remote regions of Papua, being born a girl comes with its own set of challenges. Girls aren’t entitled to inherit family land and most families don’t see the point of investing in their daughters’ education, especially, if she has disabilities. For many parents and teachers in Papua, there’s an unspoken rule: girls and children with special needs aren’t expected to do or achieve much.
Mustard Seed teachers reject this thinking and believe that every child has boundless potential. Each young person is loved and precious in the eyes of God, no matter their background or limitations. The following stories will remind you of the power that love and transformative Christian education have to break barriers and maximize possibilities. With the right support, children can rise above their challenges, find confidence, and pursue dreams that uplift their entire communities.
MEET ANI AND RASI
Rasi giving Ani a gift to congratulate her on her achievement
Rasi, the principal of MSI’s school in Papua, shares, “We want our students to grow not only in knowledge but also in faith. The truth of God’s Word provides a strong foundation for these young people—equipping them to face life’s challenges.” It is for this reason that every year they start the school term with a retreat and Bible study.
Rasi recalls a touching moment with one of his students, Ani. Born with malformation of her limbs, Ani has faced countless obstacles, but she’s never let that stop her. In 2021, Ani represented the Papuan Province as a Paralympic athlete in shot put and javelin, winning silver and bronze medals at the national level. To recognize her achievements, Rasi gave Ani a small gift in front of her classmates during the school’s Valentine’s ceremony. She burst into tears, telling him, “This is a day I’ll never forget. It’s the first time anyone has given me a gift. Thank you, sir. I promise to be a person of love and to love God.” Ani’s response stayed with Rasi, serving as a reminder of the power of steadfast love.
MEET ELLA AND JOHN
Ella and her friends playing volleyball in front MSI’s partner school in the Papuan Highlands
Ella was born healthy and lived with her mom in a traditional Papuan home made of wood and thatch, known as a honai. When she was just three months old, a fire broke out in their honai and burned it to the ground, leaving her severely burned with lasting disfiguration to her hands and feet. With no doctors or hospitals to treat her burns, it was a miracle that Ella survived.
Growing up, Ella didn’t let her physical challenges hold her back. She dreamed of becoming a doctor to help others in her village, since healthcare is still almost non-existent. “Ella studies incredibly hard,” says John, a TransformNation teacher. “She feels safe and happy at our school because her friends never tease her—they show her the respect she deserves.”
As an indigenous Papuan, John is well aware of how challenging life can be for a girl like Ella. The TransformNation Teacher-Training Program equips teachers like John to value every child, no matter their limitations, and support their students with words of encouragement. With a loving environment and support from her teachers, Ella has become a top student and excels at playing volleyball!
“Ella’s perseverance inspires me to give my best to all the kids here,” says John. “She opened my eyes to see how every child is unique and cherished by God.”
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HELP US TRANSFORM LIVES!
At Mustard Seed International, we see the incredible impact of education, compassion, and support. Ella and Ani’s stories remind us how important it is for children to feel valued, encouraged, and loved. With your help, we can provide more children with safe spaces, dedicated teachers, and resources that make a real difference. Join us on this journey of hope. Each donation brings us closer to a world where every child has the chance to shine. Give today and become a part of their story!
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Main Photo: Ani and Rasi at MSI’s school in Papua
