Ahue Chermue, or Mike, was born and raised in a family with five siblings. His parents earned their income from being labourers in agriculture. With their meagre and uncertain income, it was barely enough to cover his daily expenses, including school fees. Although he grew up in an environment full of obstacles, Mike, a third-year vocational student in the electrical engineering department, remains determined to pursue his education. This is thanks to the encouragement from his family and the education fund supported by World Vision Thailand.
Mike shares that during his teenage years, he was quite rebellious and often did not listen to his mother. He had problems at school and almost got expelled. However, his mother never lost hope in him. She pleaded with the school to give her son another chance. That was a crucial turning point that made Mike realise and focus more on his studies.
“I made my mother cry very often, but she always stood by me. That incident made me repent and prioritise my education more,’ Mike says.
Initially, Mike thought he would stop studying after finishing Grade 9 to help ease his family’s burden. However, his mother encouraged him to continue his education by suggesting he attend a charity school, for which they would not have to pay any fees. Mike chose his own path and decided to pursue vocational education, seeing that it would provide opportunities for internships and income while studying.
However, the cost of education remained a heavy burden. Fortunately, he was partially supported by his older sister and received an education fund from World Vision Thailand, which helped ease the family’s burden, allowing him to continue his educational journey more securely.
“When I heard the news that I received the education fund, I was very happy. It was like a light that shone the way for me to continue my studies. I promised myself that I would focus on finishing my education so that I could have a career and build a stable future.”
Currently, Mike is studying electrical engineering at Payap Technological and Business College Chiang Mai and plans to continue his studies for another two years to obtain a higher vocational certificate. Although he is worried that his family might not be able to bear the expense burden, he is ready to give it a try. If he truly cannot continue his studies, he will work to save up his education fund first.
Besides his studies, Mike also dreams of becoming a business owner. He aims to open a shop for repairing and selling air conditioners in the future. Currently, he is interning to gain as much experience as possible.
“I am confident that everything I learn and practice will benefit my future. I want to have a stable career to take care of my family and give back to those who have given me opportunities.”
Mike knows well how valuable the opportunities provided by World Vision Thailand are to his life. The education fund is not just financial assistance for him but a pathway that allows him to follow his dreams.
“I would like to thank everyone who has supported me. I promise to focus on my studies and work hard for my family because this opportunity is invaluable.”
Mike is another young person who does not give up to his fate and is moving towards a bright future with determination, hope, and encouragement.
