Learning Mariana's great passion
At just eight years old, Mariana Grobler is an extraordinary young girl who overcomes obstacles that most people can never imagine.Mariana has been blind since birth. Yet, with the support of her family and teachers, she thrives in a mainstream school, Pionierspark Primary School, in the capital.
For Mariana, the key to success lies in her braille machine that allows her to complete written assessments and homework and participate in class activities.
Her grandmother, Alinda Steyn, worked tirelessly with Mariana's tutor Michelle, to adapt her learning material to ensure she stayed on par with her peers.
Although reading assessments cannot always be printed in braille, the team developed a plan to use Mariana's braille lessons as reading material.
“Michelle is fantastic with Mariana,” says Arthur Pearce, an operational emergency care provider who followed Mariana's journey closely. “She makes sure that Mariana understands her schoolwork, despite the challenges. And let's not forget her class teacher, Tristan. He also contributed significantly.”
Mariana is now in grade 2 and very enthusiastic about school. However, it remains challenging to ensure that Mariana continues to receive the necessary support in mainstream education.
Covering costs
Although Mariana initially received support from the Ministry of Education, Art and Culture, the withdrawal of this financial assistance left her family and friends with the responsibility of covering the costs of a private tutor.
“Unfortunately, she is not allowed to attend a mainstream school without a tutor. This is why we rely on donations to pay the tutor's salary and to maintain the braille machine,” Pearce explained.
Raising money for Mariana's education seems to be more challenging than for her earlier medical treatments in Rochester, New York and Windhoek.
Despite this, the community stepped in and helped pay the tutor's salary and secure a private braille machine. However, the need for a regular stream of donations remains ongoing.
“We are so grateful for all the support we have received, but we still need donations to ensure that Mariana continues to receive the education she deserves,” Pearce said
Mariana dreams of one day becoming a junior primary school teacher and sharing her love of learning with the next generation. Her family's hope is simple - that she enjoys school, has the opportunity to learn and can reach her full potential.
Those wishing to support Mariana's educational journey can make donations to:
Delport Legal Practitioners
Bank Windhoek, Maerua Mall (483 872), account no: 8005577385. Reference: Mariana Fundraising. – [email protected]