FSIO Change Makers bring smiles and support to Home of Joy

Upon our arrival at Home of Joy, we were greeted by the radiant smiles of the girls and the warm welcome of Sister Theressa, the dedicated sister in charge. After introductions all around, we were treated to a delightful serenade of songs by the girls. It was truly heartwarming to hear their voices and feel their joy.

We then had the chance to learn about their dreams for the future – a room filled with aspiring doctors, nurses, a future journalist, and even a budding chef! We took the opportunity to encourage them to hold onto their ambitions, emphasising the importance of perseverance and the freedom to explore different paths as they grow. We also shared the empowering message that they can be many things at once, and that their current dedication is a valuable step towards their future goals.

Sister Theressa then gave us a brief but insightful tour of Home of Joy, showcasing the facilities they offer and explaining the day-to-day operations of the orphanage. It was inspiring to witness the care and dedication that goes into providing these young girls with a nurturing home.

We were then ushered into their hall, where the girls had prepared a vibrant dance performance for us. Their energy and enthusiasm were infectious, and one of our team members even joined in the fun, creating a beautiful moment of connection and shared joy.

Following the dance, we transitioned to a crucial aspect of our visit: educating the girls on menstrual hygiene. We discussed the importance of sanitary towels and pads, provided a brief demonstration on their proper use, and answered the girls' questions in a comfortable and open environment. Our goal was to empower them with the knowledge and understanding they need to manage their health and well-being with confidence.

The highlight of our visit was the presentation of the donations we had collected. Thanks to the incredible generosity of our colleagues at FSI, we were able to deliver over 400 pads to Home of Joy. In addition to this, we were also delighted to present Sister Theressa and the girls with a cheque for K5,000, made possible through our dedicated CSR budget. These contributions, we hope, will make a tangible difference in the lives of these young girls, ensuring they have access to essential resources.

This visit to Home of Joy was more than just a donation drop-off; it was an opportunity to connect with these bright young girls, share encouragement, and contribute to their well-being. It perfectly embodies the spirit of our newly rebranded CSR committee, FSIO Change Makers. Previously known as the "FSIO charity committee," we recognised the need for a broader scope that allows us to drive diverse initiatives with a greater impact.

Saying goodbye to the girls at Home of Joy was bittersweet. We left with hearts full of warmth and inspiration, knowing that our efforts, however small, can make a significant difference.

We believe that everyone has the power to be a change maker. If you are inspired by the work being done at Home of Joy, we encourage you to consider supporting them in any way you can. Whether it's through donations of essential items or monetary contributions, every act of kindness helps them continue their vital mission of providing a safe and loving home for these young girls.

Stay tuned for more updates on our upcoming initiatives as FSIO Change Makers continue our journey of making a positive impact in our community!