“My name is Tonderai. I came to Newstart Children’s Home in 2003. I was 11 years old. I was so timid. I had never met a white person in my life. I was very scared to be far away from home. I wanted to run away and go back home to my granny. Mom and Dad (Dr. and Mrs. Farag) took me and sat me down and talked to me in a very nice way although some of the things they were saying I did not understand. Mom’s voice was so soft and so assuring that within a few days, I had forgotten about going back home. After that I knew I had loving parents to take care of me. My name changed from Tonderai to Tondie. I felt at home and I felt very secure. I was treated in such a way which I don’t even understand myself. I don’t regret being brought up or raised at Newstart Children’s Home. This has become my home where I am wholly loved.“
“Mom and Dad encouraged me to think big about my future. They encouraged me to decide what I wanted to be. I told them my dreams and they encouraged me to work towards those dreams. Today I have realized my dream. I am an Electro-engineer. I give great honor to Mom and Dad for what they did for me. I will never forget them and I will never forget Newstart Children’s Home. Mom and Dad are the best parents in the world. Thanks to those who have helped them to take care of me through donations and prayers.“
— Tondie
