Glory in March 2007 after moving to Treasures of Africa Children's HomeThis past November I made the long journey to Tanzania with my wife Rita Langeland to celebrate a very special occasion with one of our TOA college students, Glory Ngowi. Glory was preparing for her graduation from Mzumbe University in Morogoro, Tanzania.
Here is a little bit of Glory’s background that will help you appreciate this important milestone in her life. This is a milestone we are calling “Glory’s Victory!” Glory was one of the first children to be admitted to Treasures of Africa Children’s Home when its doors first opened in March of 2007. She was 7 years old when she started living at TOA. Her father had died, and her mother was unable to care for her and her 9-year-old sister Helena. They had been living with elderly grandparents. Another family member, who was financially unable to care for them, but concerned about their well-being, brought their situation to the attention of the Social Welfare authorities and Glory and her sister were brought to live at Treasures of Africa.
Glory on Graduation Day November 24, 2024Glory was always a diligent student who took her opportunity to study seriously. A few days before her graduation Glory shared with me that at one stage in her education she had received grades that were too low to move forward in the Tanzanian education system. She was given the choice to repeat the grade level or begin to pursue vocational training that would prepare her for a specific career path. After consulting with the TOA staff and seeking God's guidance she chose to repeat the grade level even though she knew it would subject her to ridicule from other students.
She believed that God would honor her willingness to humble herself and help her hold on to the goal of one day graduating from college. Glory renewed her commitment to study hard and by the end of the next school year she had earned the top student ranking in her grade level. She said that God used that very humbling experience to help her develop strong academic habits and the self discipline needed for university level education as well as strengthening her trust in the Lord.
Every one of our TOA KIDZ is a treasure and each one has unique challenges that they must learn to overcome. Glory's victory is a story from which we can all take encouragement. Please read her heartfelt and beautifully written thank you letter on the next page.
Rita and I also say "thank you" to each of the generous donors and prayer partners who made it possible for Glory to receive a safe loving environment as a young girl and an excellent education from first grade through University level. (Read Glory's full Thank You letter below)
We have many children following in Glory's footsteps. If you would like to help them please make a donation to the Treasures of Africa KIDZ Education Fund: Click to Donate
To Those Generous Souls Who Brought Hope to My Life…
Glory Ngowi Bachelor Degree - Health Systems Management Mzumbe University November 2024I will never find enough words to express the depth of my gratitude to all of you who have supported Treasures of Africa Children’s Home over the years. From the time I was a little girl, your kindness has been the light that guided me, the hope that sustained me, and the love that uplifted me.
Though we have never met, your generosity became the bridge to a brighter future. Through your support, I received an education that has empowered me, care that has nurtured my spirit, and the strength to dream beyond my circumstances. Today, as a young adult and a university graduate, I am living proof of the impact of your compassion.
Your giving was not just about money or material support; it was a gift of possibility, a reminder that even in the darkest times, there are hearts in the world willing to make a difference. You gave me the confidence to believe in myself and the courage to strive for greatness.
Thank you for being my silent heroes, for investing in a life you had never seen, and for giving without expecting anything in return. May your kindness return to you in endless blessings, and may you always know that you have forever changed my story.
With all my love and endless gratitude,
Glory Ngowi