
OUR GRADUATES
Our goal is that every family would become self-sustaining and thrive.
In 2026, we have had 43 families graduate from our program so far, with almost 150 total expected this year. Last year we were thrilled to celebrate 140 graduates, including our first Kenya Program graduates!
These families are now considered self-sufficient and can provide for their families independently without monthly support. This is the ultimate goal of Family Hope International - freedom from extreme poverty thru empowerment!
Continue scrolling to view photos and testimonials from some of our past Ethiopia Program graduates.

Total Graduates by Year:
2026 YTD: 43
2025: 140
2024: 150
2023: 106
2022: 35
2021: 37
2020: 3
2019: 31
2018: 18
Learn more about our Empowerment Program or Fund a Micro-Loan today!
BOLE BULBULA, ETHIOPIA GRADUATES
(Click on the text or image below to read the full testimonial)

But thanks to the unwavering support of Family Hope International and our sponsoring families, our story has taken a remarkable turn. Today, we no longer know the pangs of hunger or the uncertainty of shelter. Through their generosity, we have been provided with nourishment, a comfortable home, and the means to pursue education.
Aregash has found employment, contributing to our household income, while I have embarked on a journey of entrepreneurship, venturing into the world of sewing with the assistance of a loan. This endeavor has not only provided financial stability but has also equipped me with invaluable skills in customer service, resource management, and time allocation.
As I reflect on our past struggles, tears of gratitude replace those of despair. We have transitioned from a position of dependence to one of self-sufficiency, no longer reliant on the charity of others. Our growth, both physically and emotionally, is a testament to the enduring support we have received.
To our sponsoring family, your compassionate intervention has left an indelible mark on our lives, illuminating a path to a brighter future."
I ventured into the business of selling injera, supported by a loan provided through the program. This venture has brought not only financial security but also a sense of fulfillment and joy. I have around 550 USD savings in my account. The tangible assets we have acquired, such as our home and household essentials, serve as reminders of the profound impact of your generosity. Equally invaluable are the intangible assets – the knowledge and skills gained through training and experience – which have equipped me to navigate the challenges of entrepreneurship with proficiency. I am filled with endless appreciation."


The support we received didn't just end there. With the loan provided, Initially, I ventured into selling charcoal, but soon realized it wasn't viable due to offering credit. Consequently, I transitioned to baking injera and selling business, a decision that proved fruitful. Presently, I distribute 50 to 60 loaves daily, experiencing financial stability and restored health. I never anticipated such success initially, but I've come to understand the potential for thriving through perseverance. Today, I am proud to say that I have successfully graduated from the program, having paid off all my debts. my daughter enrolled university this year, a testament to divine blessings and the opportunities bestowed upon us."


I remember those days vividly—unable to afford proper meals, lacking the basics to care for my children, and feeling the crushing weight of desperation. It seemed like there was no way out, no ray of hope in sight. Even those around me shied away, afraid of the direness of my situation.
Then, a glimmer of hope appeared in the form of a call from a company. Upon arrival, I was among 43 people called, but my condition was worse than everyone else's. People were visibly apprehensive around me, and even the organizer, Dems, was taken aback and gave me a hundred birr, which was a significant sum at the time. He reassured me, saying, "Don't worry, God will help you." Tears welled up in everyone's eyes as they looked at me.
Initially, I contemplated sending my children to the countryside with my family, but my relatives were also struggling financially. Eventually, my photo and story were shared with those who could offer support, but it took some time for the support to come. I was at a loss for what to do, on the brink of starvation. The aroma of coffee from neighboring homes would make me cry, as I couldn't even afford a 5 Birr cup of coffee.
It is like a miracle, When the support finally began arriving, my life underwent a complete transformation. The once faint ember of hope within me began to blaze anew. Each monthly assistance brought not just financial relief, but also blessings. Employment opportunities emerged, and my children began to thrive and gain weight. Even the doctor marveled at their progress, discontinuing the vitamins they had been prescribed to prevent weight loss.
I started noticing changes in myself as well. Dems, who had seen me in my darkest times, still visits and witnesses my transformation. My neighbors marvel at the positive changes in my life whenever he comes by. The support that came with pure intentions didn't just alleviate my financial struggles; it brought blessings that extended to all aspects of my life.
Buoyed by this assistance and taking the microloan, I decided to start a mini-shop business. My entire life turned around, and I finally had everything I needed at home. I start another business coffee and tea selling aside from my shop. My life, once defined by scarcity and desperation, was now filled with abundance and opportunity.
I refuse to forget the depths from which I emerged. As I look upon my savings account, brimming with over forty thousand birr, I am filled with gratitude and a sense of responsibility. I have brought my relatives from the countryside, offering them employment and a chance at a better life.
To those who offered me a lifeline when I needed it most, I can only offer my deepest thanks. Your support was not just monetary; it was a beacon of hope in my darkest hour. And as I look to the future, I am filled with hope and determination. I vow to stand by those in need, to offer whatever support I can, be it through words, deeds, or financial assistance.
To those who may find themselves in a situation similar to mine, I offer this assurance: there is light at the end of the tunnel. With faith, perseverance, and the kindness of others, even the bleakest of circumstances can be overcome. And to the organization that extended a helping hand to me, know that your generosity has not gone unnoticed. My children, now thriving at four years and six months old, will one day pay it forward, ensuring that others receive the same blessings that we have.
In closing, I offer a heartfelt prayer for blessings upon blessings to all who have aided me on this journey. May God's grace surround you always, shielding you from harm and guiding you towards paths of righteousness."


DEMBIDOLLO, ETHIOPIA GRADUATES
(Click on the text or image below to read the full testimonial)

But then, like a beacon of hope in our darkest hour, you extended your hand to us. With your assistance, we were able to turn the tide and carve out a new path for ourselves. The income-generating activity you provided empowered me to take control of our financial destiny. Through hard work and dedication, I was able to build a home for my family—a sanctuary where we can thrive and grow together.”


With the burden of financial worries lifted from our shoulders, we've been able to focus on what truly matters - nurturing and educating our children in a safe and secure environment. Your support has enabled my son to graduate from university, a milestone we once feared would be beyond our reach. Your compassion has inspired us to become beacons of hope in our community, spreading love and support to those who find themselves in circumstances similar to ours.”
Since receiving the fund, we have been able to build a spacious and comfortable home for our family, providing us with a sense of security and stability we had only dreamed of before. Additionally, we have invested in a shop that sells essential goods, which has not only brought financial stability but also a sense of pride in being able to contribute to our community.
Your support has not only changed our lives but has also ignited a passion within us to pay it forward and make a positive difference in the lives of others. Thank you for believing in us and for being a beacon of hope in our journey towards self-reliance and empowerment.”


Moreover, I am proud to report that my children are thriving. One of them is pursuing a career in auto-mechanics, while the other is receiving a quality education. Witnessing their growth and seeing them flourish fills my heart with happiness and pride.
Today, my life looks vastly different from what it once was. I am surrounded by all the essentials of a comfortable life — from household belongings to clothing. From the depths of my soul, I extend my sincerest gratitude to you.”
Genet Dula, Bole Bulbula, Ethiopia
"When I joined Family Hope International I was living in living with many challenges. I had nothing to feed my children and no source of income to fulfill the needs of my family. But after you began supporting my family, you saved us from hunger, disease and death. I want to thank God who sent you as an angel to rescue our family."
GUTUMUMA, ETHIOPIA GRADUATES
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“Last year was difficult for me because of the drought. It was a challenge to care for my bulls. However, I am doing well. I own my home and have money in my savings account. I have business knowledge gained from training and job experience. I like my business and plan to continue raising and selling young bulls. I will also help new beginners in the Empowerment Program by advising them. God helped me and my children and saved us from great problems. I bless FHI and pray for them and my sponsor. May God bless them and protect them!”
Last year was a dry season, which hurt my business. But currently I have 2 young bulls and money saved in my bank account. I also have business knowledge and job experience. May God bless Family Hope International. I have made it through a difficult time because of FHI.”


MESERET KRISTOS, ETHIOPIA GRADUATES
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Joining the IGA program marked a transformative chapter in my life. Prior to that, I was merely surviving, burdened with the responsibility of providing for my family and lacking hope. However, everything took a positive turn when I became a part of this incredible family. The microloan presented a life-altering opportunity, and I utilized it wisely to establish my own small café. This significantly improved the well-being of my family and me. I owe a great deal of gratitude for this positive change.
I want my family to be aware that their unwavering support has brought me invaluable benefits, including savings of $1,000 USD and valuable business skills acquired through IGA's training and work experience. My heartfelt thanks extend to each one of them for their support.”


My family abroad taught me how to overcome challenges with determination and hard work. Even though my clothing business is struggling now because I don’t have a permanent place to work, I believe that my strength will help me recover and make things better for me and my family. I also sell fresh vegetables to the community. With your assistance, we have the basic things we need, like food and clothes. My home is more comfortable now, and so is my self-esteem. This is all because of your dedication and the opportunities you gave me.
I have things now that I never thought I would have and I thank you from the bottom of my heart. This includes a savings of $100 USD, and useful business skills from the business training and work experience. None of this would have happened without your support, and I am very grateful for everything you have done for me.”



