How ongoing mentorship can build confidence, develop talents, and strengthen the bond between a mother and her adopted child through their transformative journey.
A Decade with The Dreamhouse Foundation: A Journey Full of Meaning
On a bright afternoon, Mother DW and her adopted daughter, SL, sat enthusiastically sharing their long journey with The Dreamhouse Foundation. “It’s been about 9-10 years now,” said Mother DW with a wide smile. Since then, their lives have never been the same. From initial worries to becoming a supportive family, this story is tangible proof of the impact of sustainable mentorship for both children and parents.
The Beginning: From Worry to Trust
The story began when The Dreamhouse Foundation team unexpectedly arrived in their village. “We panicked, thinking the children were being kidnapped or something?” recalled Mother DW with a laugh. At that time, the children were invited to play futsal and other fun activities. That initial worry soon turned into understanding once they realized the organization’s good intentions. “Finally, I gave some direction, it’s better to report to the local neighborhood head first,” she continued. From there, a solid collaboration was built between The Dreamhouse Foundation and the local community.
SL: From Shy to Confident
SL, now in 9th grade, clearly remembers her first time joining. “I still remember. I was interested, curious. And it turned out to be really fun!” she said with sparkling eyes. The girl, who has artistic talents, found the right place to develop her potential at The Dreamhouse Foundation. “I already liked art before, but here it really developed,” she added. Now, SL even aspires to enter a vocational high school (SMK) in beauty (MUA) and arts.
Interesting Fact: SL is Mother DW’s adopted child, whom she cares for with full love despite their different beliefs. “I have never tried to convert this child to Christianity. I love her dearly,” emphasized Mother DW. This commitment shows that love and children’s rights transcend all differences.
Empowering Parenting: Not Just for Children
One of the most important aspects of The Dreamhouse Foundation’s program is parenting sessions for parents. Mother DW enthusiastically explained, “Every meeting has a different theme, with different speakers. The locations also rotate.” This provides space for mothers not only to learn but also to refresh from their routines.
“Without The Dreamhouse Foundation, we might have been fragile,” admitted Mother DW. “I became braver, gained better principles for raising children, and learned parenting methods suitable for today’s generation.”
Significant Transformation: Strong Mentality and Confidence
When asked about the most significant change, Mother DW answered without hesitation, “A strong mentality!” Especially for SL as a girl in a challenging era. “I am very grateful that The Dreamhouse Foundation provides parenting sessions, education… this child now has a strong mentality and confidence.”
SL herself admitted that the public speaking activities she participated in were very memorable. “It made me more confident,” she said. This self-assurance now enables her to aspire highly and develop her artistic talents.
Hopes and Messages for the Future
Mother DW’s Hopes for SL:
“At the very least, she can become a child with a strong mentality… a child who is accomplished, successful, and able to manage her own life.”
SL’s Hopes:
“I hope Mama can guide me until I’m grown up.”
Mother DW’s Message for Other Parents:
“Educating children doesn’t have to use old methods… every generation is different. It’s better for parents to introspect first. Talk to your child one-on-one, make agreements together.”
SL’s Message for Her Peers:
“Don’t be shy to speak in public. The key is confidence!”
Hopes for The Dreamhouse Foundation
Mother DW hopes The Dreamhouse Foundation can “expand its reach in embracing more children” and “increase the number of young souls who embrace the children around them.”
Conclusion: Children’s Rights are a Priority
The 10-year journey of Mother DW and SL teaches us about the importance of the four rights of the child: the right to participate, the right to development, the right to protection, and the right to survival. As Mother DW said, “How we educate children should not be the same as when our parents educated us.”
The Dreamhouse Foundation remains committed to being a place for children like SL to thrive, and for parents like Mother DW to learn and grow with their children.
Every child has a different character, and it is our task to find the right way so that every potential can shine brightly.
This article is adapted from an interview with Mother DW and SL, participants of The Dreamhouse Foundation program for 10 years. Names have been adjusted for privacy protection