Israella Ndayibonye, Children Center Librarian - Kibogora, Rwanda

Israella grew up in a rural area of Rwanda, with 10 siblings. She loves reading, writing and singing. Her favorite colors are yellow, blue, white and black. She finished her secondary school focusing on Mathematics, Chemistry and Biology. “I studied this combination with the aim of becoming a doctor who takes care of patients because I grew up with a desire to care for people, especially those who are suffering. I felt that I could contribute to  comforting them." Struggling to make ends meet, her family could not send her to university, but her dream to care for others never died. Looking for opportunities to get closer to her dream, she approached a nearby hospital. She first wanted to volunteer, and she ended up getting a job as a cleaner, working in 5 different departments namely surgery, pediatrics, neonatology and sterilization, and hospital personnel noticed her drive as she constantly went above and beyond to help patients, especially the young ones. When she heard the position to work at the Kibogora Children Center as librarian, she jumped on it, and the hospital leadership endorsed her. "I felt very motivated to apply; I knew I would be happy in that job. I felt like I was on the way to achieving my dream. My position helps me to see the value of taking care of a child at a young age. I love reading books, and encouraging children to read and write. When I give knowledge, I am gaining knowledge too. Spending time with the children opens my own mind too.” With her passion and enthusiasm, Israella is making a difference at the Kibogora hospital for the children on the pediatric ward. Thank you Israella for your dedication and care!