At just a young age, Lilian already knows the value of clean water. Not long ago, her mornings were spent walking to a distant riverbed to collect water with other classmates. The journey was long, exhausting, and sometimes dangerous.
“There were wild animals there,” shared her teacher. “Many of the girls didn't even understand the importance of water because they'd never truly had it.”
Today, Lilian is able to be in school every day, all thanks to safe water in her community. Clean water has given her the chance to learn, to grow, and to imagine a future filled with possibility. "I want to be a pilot when I grow up so I can visit new places and fly," Lilian shared.
Her teachers have also seen the difference firsthand. The students are healthier, attendance has improved, and they're able to focus on just being kids.
Her teacher has seen the difference firsthand. Children are healthier, attendance has improved, and students have more time to focus on their education instead of searching for water.
As summer begins for many children around the world, Lilian's story is a reminder of how much can change when clean water is close to home. A shorter walk for water means the chance for children like Lilian to dream about what's possible.
"Water is life," her teacher reminded us. "Water is everything."
