Sama, 15, lives in Vaishali, India, with her mum, dad, sister and three brothers. She’s been sponsored by Mark and Christine Jackson from Newcastle for nearly 11 years.
Sama believes she’s very lucky to have a family who love and care for her. She feels very close to Mark and Christine through the letters and photos they’ve exchanged. Meeting them would be a dream come true.
Sama, Mark and Christine were very excited to plan their first meeting in India for October 2020, but coronavirus restrictions meant the Jacksons had to cancel their trip. Thanks to World Vision staff, they were able to meet by video call, just like so many families have done in the past year.
Sama and the Jacksons discussed family, food and the weather in their virtual visit. Mark and Christine promised to send Sama a photo of snow, which she’s never seen. Sama was surprised to discover they all share a love of the Indian flatbread, chapatti. “You come and I will prepare chapatti for you,” she offered, and she’s already practising her cooking skills.
“I am so happy to have you as my sponsors. From myself, from my parents and my family, I really want to thank both of you,” said Sama. The virtual visit was a special connection to the people who have made such a difference to her life. The Jacksons were touched too. “It’s a real honour for us to be able to do this. It’s very humbling,” said Mark.
Sama (right), speaking to her sponsors, Mark and Christine, over a video call.
Strengthen your connection with your sponsored child today by registering your interest in a virtual sponsor visit.