I’m from Sierra Leone and I came to Ireland three years ago. Growing up, I couldn’t always go to school because my family couldn’t afford the fees, and I eventually dropped out of my secondary school. I did all sorts of small jobs to help support my family – working in bars and doing other work to contribute. Life was hard, but I learned to keep going and make the most of what I had.
On August 14th, 2022, a massive mudslide changed everything. I lost my close family – both of my parents, my sister and her children, and I also lost my leg. I was pregnant, alone, and had nothing. I decided to move to Ireland to try to rebuild my life. The journey wasn’t easy.
When I arrived, I didn’t speak English and had no computer skills, so learning became my main focus. I enrolled in every online course I could find. NALA was especially helpful, as I could study online, which was essential as a single mother with an infant and as a person with a disability. I also took courses with the Irish Refugee Council, who supported me greatly. NALA even gave me a laptop, which allowed me to continue learning.
I’m proud that in just a couple of years, I’ve made so much progress. At first, I could only say ‘please’ and understand very little. Now, I can speak, respond, ask questions, and express myself. I’ve learned about communication, Irish history, preparing for interviews, building a CV, and how to interact in the community. Adult education has helped me integrate, gain confidence, and connect with others.
Adult education is more than just learning -it gives freedom, confidence, and the tools to shape your life. It allows you to integrate into your community, achieve your dreams, get a job, and bring value to yourself and others. No matter your circumstances, whether you are disabled, a single parent, or from a disadvantaged background, education can help you become who you want to be. Dropping out of school is not the end; there are always opportunities to learn, online or otherwise.
Through adult education, I’ve been able to step out of my circumstances and show what I am capable of. It has given me the courage to keep going, even while living in direct provision with my three-year-old child and facing many challenges. Learning has allowed me to express myself, connect with others, and feel proud of what I’ve achieved.
I want to share my story to inspire others—single parents, people with disabilities, those who have faced trauma or depression. Adult education can change your life. It can give you joy, independence, and the ability to add value to your community. It shows that no barrier, neither poverty, nor disability, nor life circumstances can stop you if you are determined to learn and grow.
