Anne Cheruto is 13 years old and currently in Grade 7. She comes from a deeply challenging background, shaped by poverty, cultural pressure, and abandonment — yet her determination to learn and serve others continues to shine through.
Anne was born into a polygamous family. Her mother was the first wife, followed by two other wives. When Anne’s father migrated with his other wives, he left Anne’s mother behind with nothing to support her or her children. The reason for this abandonment was devastatingly simple: Anne’s mother had given birth only to girls.
Within her community, a strong belief exists that a boy child is needed to continue the family lineage and provide future security. Because Anne’s mother did not have a son, she and her daughters were rejected.
With no choice and no resources, Anne’s mother returned to her relatives with her six daughters — Anne among them. She struggled daily to provide even the most basic needs. Education became an impossible luxury.
As a result, most of Anne’s sisters were forced to undergo female genital mutilation (FGM) and were married at a young age. Anne, however, loved school. She loved going to church. She dreamed of a future that looked different.
But when school fees could no longer be paid, Anne was forced to stay at home for an entire year.
Everything changed when Anne’s family learned about One Woman at a Time, coordinated locally in Kenya by Moses Lokeris and supported by donors in the UK. Through this support, Anne was given the opportunity to return to school and resume her education.
Today, Anne is back in class — hopeful, determined, and focused on her future.
Her dream is to become a nurse, so she can help care for people in her community and give back to others who are struggling, just as she once did.
Anne’s story is one of resilience, courage, and quiet strength. With continued sponsorship, she can remain in school, avoid early marriage, and work towards achieving her dream.
We warmly invite any passionate well-wisher to help sponsor Anne and give her the chance to build a life filled with dignity, education, and purpose.
