When we think about one of the primary intentions of Joyful Journeys Ministry in India, it is to empower the women and children in the impoverished area of Madhavapatnam and beyond by providing free education and teaching skills for a brighter future...
today, we celebrated their accomplishments!
First on the agenda, was to participate in handing out certificates of completion to the women who have recently finished the Cutting and Tailoring program at the Landowgals Fashion Institute. It was a humble honor to be a part of this ceremony that recognized the hard work and determination of these women, young and old, who have taken advantage of an opportunity to lift them out of their current circumstances. They were so proud of themselves, as they should be, as they received their diplomas, scissors, tape measures, and one of Oma's special washcloths!
Knowing that after 20 years, this program has offered literally hundreds, if not a thousand, women the stepping stones needed to cross over to a place in life where they can provide for themselves and their families in a dignified and prosperous way is a pretty amazing feeling! Thank you to everyone who has played a part in its success through the years, your support has changed lives for the better!!!
Shine Brite, Shine Far, women of India!💖
Following the program, there was a slight maintenance issue that needed to be tended to...a small King Cobra was found coiled up in a toilet in one of the boys bathrooms at the school! 😬
In the altered words from the Wizard of Oz... "Jo Jo, I don't think we're in West Bend anymore!"
It was then time to pause for lunch before the afternoon festivities began. We were graciously invited over to the home of dear family members who provided us with a delicious meal and good conversation!
Now, it was time for the 2026 Marshall School Science Expo!
I guarantee, words will fall short of what we experienced, but I'll try anyway...
Imagine going from classrooms to an assembly hall, filled with 300+ students, each wanting to tell you about their project, and I will add, patiently waiting for their turn! Each child explained, in English, everything from amoebas to agriculture, solar systems to electricity, anatomy to environment...
they covered EVERYTHING and in great detail!!!
As much as I wish I could share each presentation with you, so you too could be blown away by their vast knowledge, I have sorted through the 227 photo/video clips that were sent to me for your viewing pleasure! 😉
There is absolutely no doubt in my mind, that the quality of education that the children are receiving at the Marshall School, is preparing them for whatever path they choose to go on in their lives. I am incredibly grateful to Director Novahu, Principal Manjula, and the whole staff for their level of commitment in cultivating academic seeds into the tilled minds of these youthful "Shine Brites"! With the continued financial backing of Joyful Journeys supporters, the sky is the limit as to where they will go! 💗
In humble gratitude...
Namaste'
~Jenny
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