From Mae Hong Son to the Hospital Ward: Fon’s Inspiring Path to Nursing
“The support from my sponsor began when I was just in Grade 3 and continued until I graduated with a nursing degree. Without that sponsorship, my family and I would have struggled so much more. I am deeply grateful for your kindness.”
Ornjira, or Fon, a former sponsored child from Mae Hong Son Area Programme, shared her journey of educational support that transformed not only her life but also her family’s future. Fon grew up in a farming family, dependent on unpredictable seasons and fluctuating crop yields, which could be sold at unyielding prices. Most of what they grew was for household consumption, as prices were beyond their control. With no steady income, the family faced constant financial insecurity, especially when it came to providing educational opportunities for their children.
Fortunately, Fon’s family received sponsorship through World Vision Foundation of Thailand when she was in Grade 3. Child sponsorship ensured that children like Fon could continue their education without interruption, covering school fees, learning materials, and other essentials for healthy growth. Beyond supporting children, the programme also helped families develop sustainable livelihoods, improving their quality of life and enabling them to care for their children in the long term.
The turning point came with the Bachelor’s Degree Programme. “My parents have two children. When I finished secondary school, I hesitated to pursue a bachelor’s degree because I wanted my younger brother to have the chance to study instead. Our family was still struggling, and I did not want to add to their burden.”
Fon recalled the difficult decision after completing secondary school. She almost gave up on her higher studies to avoid burdening her parents and to give her brother a better chance.
“But the Bachelor’s Degree Programme allowed me to study nursing and earn my bachelor’s degree. I am so thankful to the donor and World Vision Foundation of Thailand. Without this support, my family would have faced even greater hardship—and I might not have this life today.”
The Bachelor’s Degree Programme is another initiative of the World Vision Foundation of Thailand. In this programme, we partner with sponsors and donors to help determined young people continue their education and earn vocational and high-vocational diplomas or bachelor’s degrees despite financial barriers. The goal is to help them develop and secure a better future. Thanks to this education fund support, Fon was able to study in the field that she loved without worrying about being a burden on her family—and her younger brother could also continue his education.
It is a genuine life transformation. “Now I have graduated and worked as a nurse at a hospital in Mae Hong Son Province. I feel so happy to help others and see patients smile.”
Today, Fon has achieved her dream of becoming a certified nurse. She cares for patients in a hospital in Mae Hong Son Province, finding joy and meaning in serving others. From a young girl worried about her family’s struggles, she has today a career that allows her to help others, provide for her family, and contribute to society.
This transformation not only changes Fon’s life but also the whole family. From living with uncertainty and hardship, the family now has a daughter who is a certified nurse who secures a stable income, supports the household, and gains self-reliance. Her younger brother also continues his education.
“I want to thank my sponsor and donors from the bottom of my heart. I promise to work hard, help others, and be a role model for children and youth in the future.” Fon’s promise reflects the actual impact of sponsorship and the Bachelor’s Degree Programme, not only changing a girl's life but also inspiring her to pass on kindness and become a positive example for others. This is the power of opportunity: transforming a child into a changemaker for others.