A day in Madagascar starts very early for Juliano, a little boy Highlands. Every morning, before thinking about school, there is a lot to do at home. As soon as I wake up, it's still dark, but I have no choice, I have to start by preparing my little brothers and sisters. They are still young, and it's up to me to help them wash and dress before our mom prepares us a simple breakfast.
Once the little ones are ready, I help her tidy the house. With us, everything is modest, but mom likes it to be clean and tidy before starting the day. We sweep the yard with branches, we put away the kitchen utensils, and then it’s already time to take out the cattle with my dad. We have some zebu, which are very valuable to us. My father shows me how to properly guide them in the fields so that they can graze.
After these tasks, It's finally time for me to get ready for school. The school is five kilometers from my village, and I have to walk all this way on foot. Sometimes, I meet other children, and together, we share stories to pass the time. I really like school, especially mathematics. I dream of being able to continue my studies, maybe even go to college one day. Become someone important, who could help my family and our village, this is my biggest wish.
Arrived at school, the day passes quickly between classes and games. But I always keep my dream in mind : study hard to become a respected man, capable of bringing change to our small community.
A day in Madagascar, it is also a journey towards the future. Despite the miles to travel and the many tasks to accomplish, I always keep the hope that one day, thanks to education, I will be able to make my family proud and help mine live better.