At 25 years old, Khadra left her home in Somalia, seeking safety and better access to medical care. Her options in Somalia were limited. “I stayed at home mostly. For one, I’m disabled, and people tried to limit my ability. Two, there was a war going on, and I was only concerned for my safety.”
In coming to the United States, Khadra felt like she could finally make her dreams come true. But she found new challenges in this country, not knowing the language or basics of everyday life. She couldn’t go grocery shopping, take the bus, or count money.
“Nothing was easy. Everything needed adjustment and was very difficult,” says Khadra, when she talks about immigrating to the United States. “You can’t do much without knowing the language. I always had to ask for help to get the simplest thing done, and I found that embarrassing.”
“You can’t do much without knowing the language. I always had to ask for help to get the simplest thing done, and I found that embarrassing.”
Then Khadra found the English Learning Center. And there’s no other way to put it—she’s flourishing.
This spring, Khadra advanced an entire English level, which put her in our second most advanced class! In May, she proudly received the Minnesota Literacy Council’s Outstanding Learner Award.
Khadra can easily see the difference school has made in her life. She shares, “Since coming to school, I learned more and became comfortable with discovering my independence. Discovering my passion and goals is important to me. Learning English is important because my life depends on it.”
“Since coming to school, I learned more and became comfortable with discovering my independence. Discovering my passion and goals is important to me. Learning English is important because my life depends on it.”
Khadra has also emerged as a leader in our ELC community. Whether she’s straightening classrooms, sharpening pencils, or helping classmates in the computer lab, she’s always willing to help. Her bright smile can lift anyone’s spirits.
Although Khadra’s disability presents a challenge in her everyday life, she does not let it stop her from doing what she loves—getting an education. Her strength and perseverance are an inspiration. She aspires to go to college one day and help others who are in a similar situation.