Elisante means "Thank God" in Swahili. It is a meaningful name for a little boy whose story has become one of courage, dignity, and practical action.
Elisante was playing at school when an ordinary childhood moment became life-changing. With no playground, swings, or safe equipment, children made do with whatever space and objects they could find. During play, Elisante was accidentally poked in the eye with a stick. He lost his eye.
But his story did not end with the accident.
Afterward, Elisante faced challenges of feeling and looking different from his inquisitive peers. Inala helped him receive a prosthetic eye and glasses, helping restore his confidence, dignity, and place among his classmates.
His accident also revealed a bigger need. Children need safe places to play.
That need became action. Inala helped build a custom playground at Elisante's school, giving children a safer, happier place to run, climb, laugh, and simply be children.
Now we are carrying that work forward. We are raising funds to help more disabled children feel seen, included, and supported, and to build a playground for our second school.
Help Children Belong