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A father like no other

A father like no other

This Father's Day, we meet dads helping their children achieve their dreams

This Sunday, 16 June, is Father’s Day – and to celebrate, we’re sharing the stories of amazing dads around the world, who are helping their children to stand up to social pressures, stay in school and take control of their lives, and their futures.  

Gladys and Francisco, Ecuador

Francesco wants his daughter Gladys to continue her education

17-year-old Gladys lives deep in the Ecuadorian Andes with her father, Francisco.

He stands out in their community because he’s one of the few fathers encouraging his daughter to stay in school, and with the courage to talk to her about sexual and reproductive health.

It’s an important conversation. Until now, the lack of sex education classes at Gladys’ school, combined with the silence surrounding the topic, has left 15% of girls in her community affected by teenage pregnancy.

I tell her, please don’t have children or get married yet. Stay single. Study. Protect yourself. You’re young. Make yourself a future first.

Francisco, Ecuador

Nak and Nid, Laos

When Nak fell ill, his father Nid helped him get back into education through a Plan International programme.

In Northern Laos, a serious illness left Nak unable to walk. But his dad, Nid, was determined that wouldn’t mean the end of his son’s education.

That was when he heard about a Plan International programme, supporting children to access education and health care.

"After hearing that Nak would be able to go back to school, I became so excited and hopeful,” he says.

Today, thanks to his dad’s perseverance and support, Nak goes to school in a wheelchair. He enjoys learning and playing with his classmates and is happy to have regained his confidence.

Komal and Vijay, India

Through Plan International’s Saksham project, which provides training in vocational and business skills, Komal has found a job at a fast food outlet close to her home.

19-year-old Komal lives with her family in an informal settlement  in Delhi. In her community, a girl her age is expected to get married rather than get a job. But Komal’s father, Vijay, has different aspirations for his daughter.

“In our society, it’s not easy for parents to send their daughters to work. It’s traditionally a man’s role,” he explains.

“We are regularly reminded to get Komal married by neighbours and relatives, but I have assured my daughter that it won’t happen unless she is ready. I want her to be successful and have a career.”

I don’t want my daughter to live through the challenges my wife and I have experienced. I realise that through education, you can achieve anything and be equal to anyone

Vijay, India
Girl writing sponsored child

Give sponsorship as a gift

Do you know a Dad who’d love to give another child the chance to follow their dreams? Give them the gift of child sponsorship this Father’s Day and that’s exactly what they’ll be able to do, as our Supporter Engagement Coordinator, Erin, explains…

“I wanted to give my Dad a different present, something he wouldn’t expect but that would put a smile on his face. When he opened the envelope and saw his sponsored child, his face lit up. He was so touched. This gift has enabled him to support his sponsored child to follow their dream of becoming a doctor.”

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