Overcoming Barriers and Pursuing Dreams: Labe´s Story

Labe, a kind and determined 15-year-old girl from the Roma community, lives in Elbasan, in one of the most impoverished areas predominantly inhabited by Roma families. Despite her warm smile and kind nature, Labe has faced significant challenges that have threatened to disrupt her education and future aspirations.

Labe’s family consists of her father, mother, and 9-year-old brother. They are homeless and currently live in a small, poorly constructed house with her grandmother and two uncles with their families. Their economic struggles have been hard, often forcing them to travel to Macedonia and Kosovo for seasonal work. This instability resulted in Labe frequently missing school for weeks at a time, causing her to fall behind in her studies.

When Labe was 10 years old, due to extreme financial difficulties, the family moved to Greece. Leaving Albania meant Labe had to abandon school, a decision that weighed heavily on her. "I didn’t want to leave school halfway," she recalls. She enrolled in a Greek school, but the language barrier made it impossible for her to follow lessons, and she was bullied by her classmates. Feeling isolated and discouraged, she eventually dropped out.

The family’s struggles continued as her parents worked informally, collecting and selling second-hand clothes in Greece. In early 2022, after failing to secure stable employment in Greece, they returned to Albania. 

Though Labe was eager to resume school, she hesitated, fearing she would not be able to catch up. But, due to outreach efforts by the Power4AY project staff, she was encouraged to return, as education remained one of her greatest aspirations.

Now back in school, Labe is a year behind but determined not to fall further behind. She has worked hard to catch up, particularly in subjects she enjoys, such as biology, chemistry, and geography. "I'm happy to be back in school, and I really want to learn. It’s important for my future," she says.

Despite her commitment to education, Labe faces many community pressures. In her community, early marriage is common, and girls are often expected to start families at a young age. Her mother was forced to get married at just 12 years old, and her father at 15. 

This reality worries Labe, who fears she will be forced into the same path. "At first, I felt lost and hopeless. I thought I would end up like my mother," she admits. However, she remains firm in her desire to continue her education and resist these pressures. Labe shares a strong bond with her younger brother, whom she protects and supports. "He’s my little brother, and I always try to keep him close to me," she says. 

With their father frequently away for seasonal work, Labe’s mother, plays a central role in their upbringing. She actively participates in project’s information sessions, training for parents and community meetings to discuss Labe’s education and well-being. "I’ve learned so much through the project, and it’s made me a better mother," she says. "The family should be a healthy environment that ensures stability and harmony, especially for children."

Labe has actively engaged in activities designed to enhance her life skills, awareness, and education. "I’ve learned about hygiene, children’s rights, girls’ development, conflict resolution, effective communication, money management, and the impact of the environment on our health. This project has truly relieved some of my biggest challenges and changed my life," she says.

The project has also provided training in emotional management and conflict resolution, equipping Labe with tools to handle difficult situations. "Now, I know how to manage my feelings and how to deal with conflicts without getting angry or upset," she explains. These skills have helped her build resilience and a stronger sense of self-worth.

One of Labe’s most significant achievements has been her ability to re-enter school after a prolonged absence. With the project’s support, she has made remarkable progress in catching up with her studies and remaining committed to her education. "I’m very happy to be in school again. It’s important for me to finish my education and pursue my dreams," she says.

Labe dreams of becoming a nurse, driven by her desire to help others. "I love caring for people, and I want to become a nurse someday," she says with determination. She enjoys painting, keeping her environment clean, and reading. She has also become more socially active, attending school and project events and activities and participating in community initiatives.

Her mother expresses deep gratitude for the support received through the project. "The new knowledge and emotional support, I’ve received have helped me become a better parent. I’ve learned how to handle my children’s challenges without hurting them emotionally," she shares. The project has provided her both educational tools and emotional support, fostering a sense of belonging and hope.

Despite ongoing challenges—including poverty, cultural barriers, and financial instability—Labe remains dedicated in her pursuit of a brighter future. "The project helped me realize that my life doesn’t have to follow the same path as my mother’s," she says. "I want to help myself and my community when I grow up."

Labe’s progress highlights how education, life skills training, and community support can make a real difference in the lives of Roma youth, especially girls. By addressing economic hardships and cultural challenges, the Power4AY project is helping vulnerable children like Labe build a better future, free from poverty and early marriage.

In 2024, the project reached 469 young people, including Roma/Egyptians and youth with disabilities. It provided essential services such as personalized development plans, life skills training, environmental programs, migration information, case management, counseling, child rights education, entrepreneurship and job skills training, advocacy, after-school tutoring in math, and school materials for families in need. 

Thanks to this support, Labe has gained the tools and confidence to overcome challenges and move forward with hope.