Dearest Friends,

Here are the latest updates on our newest projects in Bukavu: the “ ” carpentry school, which began last April, and the new welding school—both designed for young people who primarily live on the streets.

The woodworking class is going well; the students are happy and learning well, with great enthusiasm. They have made stools, chairs, tables, beds, and wardrobes.

Unfortunately, it’s not easy to sell things at a good price, since we’re in a very poor neighborhood that’s been devastated by fires, but we at least try to recoup the cost of the materials we use. We’ve been harassed by agents of the new government (the “occupiers”—remember that Bukavu is no longer under Congolese rule), who impose taxes left and right; so, even though the workshop is registered under our nonprofit organization (“Msaada kwa Wanyonge”), we cannot be exempt from them; however, we are trying to negotiate to minimize our expenses. Thanks to Fabien’s help, we have begun,

who coordinates our projects in Bukavu, , as well as literacy classes for the illiterate children in the workshop, and also invites other children from their families who do not attend school.

It took months of work, but we finally finished it—thanks to Fabien’s perseverance and sensitivity, as he patiently interviewed about twenty young men and women he met on the street and visited their families,

traveling through several very poor neighborhoods—recruiting 10 students between the ages of 14 and 17 for the welding school, which we mentioned in our previous newsletter. We’ve also found a suitable space in the working-class neighborhood of Essence, next to another carpentry workshop, which we’ll rent at a modest price to set up our small workshop. Work to prepare the hangar is now underway, and we’ll begin purchasing materials this week. Yesterday, Fabien met with the students and their guardians (we always look for a parent or another person who can take responsibility for the minor) to register them, have them sign the documents, explain the workshop rules, etc.

I plan to travel to Bukavu once the workshop begins—possibly around mid-October—to supervise the activities and get to know the new students, as well as to follow Mwenga’s projects a little more closely.

I'll let you know in the next newsletter.

Once again, a heartfelt thank you to all of you who have supported us in carrying out these projects! I’m still counting on your help so we can continue these projects and help other children and families living in extreme poverty.

Ilaria, 8 ttobre 2026