Hearing from beneficiaries of projects coordinated within the SISEAP Federation, we step into the heartfelt journey of Syifa, a determined student whose educational aspirations were met with unforeseen challenges. Through the support of SI Penang, Syifa shares her gratitude for the financial support that not only made her dreams of studying at the Management Science University (MSU) a reality but also provided crucial assistance during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“To Soroptimist International Club of Penang,

Greetings, I am Syifa one of your education fund candidate recipients. First and foremost, I humbly really like to thank Soroptimist International Club of Penang for their financial assistance which has help me greatly to achieve my dream of studying in the local Management Science University (MSU). In 2020 I received an offer to study Diploma in Management at the MSU College in Penang for 2 years and 4 months. To be able to study here Soroptimist Penang stepped in with their assistance in helping me with my tuition fees for the duration of my course. My dad passed away when I am still small and my mother was not able to afford to pay my tuition fees. Soroptimist really are our only hope for me and my family.

A few months into 2020 the COVID pandemic hits and unfortunately, I was infected with Covid and had to be hospitalised at the General Hospital. During that time, I was supposed to sit for my last semester exam like my course friends. I was so disappointed that I could not sit for my exam and was very worried that I will not be able to complete my course. I was over the moon when Soroptimist stepped in and managed to get the college to extend more time for me to complete my course.

I’m ever so thankful that with the financial assistance awarded to me by all members of Soroptimist Penang and the encouragement from Soroptimist via President Suraya and Ms. Lilian I managed to complete my Diploma course in Management and my graduation will be in May/June 2024. I’m very excited about this which will enable me to secure a good job that will help my family income too. I have just completed my internship at a local hotel and waiting for interview in the middle of January.

Soroptimist not only helped me financially and encouraged me in ensuring my studies were a success as well as upon hearing that my mother, who is a single mother suffering from Diabetes and in bad shape of health, Soroptimist Penang quickly arranged for my mom to see the Doctor at the General Hospital and now my mom has routine checkups and with the medication given she is now well and in control of her illness. Soroptimist Penang also during the pandemic gave a laptop to my brother to enable him to study at home, when attending physical class at school was not possible. He was able to continue to study online at home and completed tasks and homework given by his teachers with ease.

Soroptimist really gave hope to me and my family, enabling me and my brother in our education to achieved our dreams. My family and I wish to express our grateful “Thank you” to all members of Soroptimist Club of Penang for all their care in my plight and helping us without hesitation when we most needed it. I hope Soroptimist continue to enable students like me to reach the best they can.

I extend my sincere gratitude to all at Soroptimist for uplifting us and making a difference to our lives and especially for giving attention to those in need.

Thank you.

Yours sincerely,

Syifa”

Syifa’s journey stands out as we commemorate this International Day of Education; supported by SI Panang, this narrative underscores the profound impact of education and community support on individual lives.