Isatou talking about her life experience. She grew up in a traditional Fula family. Her father refused to send her to school. It was her mother who supported her schooling from the small money she made selling at the market. Isatou was in the top of her class and wanted to go to the city to attend of the best high schools. Her father forbade it wanting her to marry. Isatou refused and was kicked out of the compound. She was at the top of her class, of course, excelling against all odds. She was active in the community, volunteered for the UN, committing herself to community work. Now she is the only one in her family working. Of all her brothers that her father sent to school, none of them have a steady job like Isatou. She was welcomed back into the compound and still refuses to marry until she is ready. Isatou is a true example of how changing attitudes can empower girls. I was left speechless after she talked, just so grateful for her existence and active participation in this community.

(At this point is was two in the afternoon. Alot of the girls barely slept the night before. Between the heat and the lack of sleep it was hard to keep them engaged as we can see with the girl sleeping in the back.)