From Homemaker to Educator – Allie’s Inspiring Journey!

2023-12 Dec , Vision News 2 min read

In the heart of Sabah’s Tulid region lives 36-year-old Allie Latin. Allie wears many hats – she’s a mother of nine, and works as a farmer to make ends meet. Life in this remote community isn’t easy, and she faces great difficulty in supporting her large family.

Allie has one unexpected role on her list – educator. As the principal of a pre-school, her passion for learning and unwavering determination have made her a beacon of hope in the community.

The Pursuit of Learning

Despite having to walk 11 kilometres to school, Allie developed a deep love for learning as a child, with a knack for Maths and English. Though her educational journey was unconventional, her passion for teaching blossomed along the way.

In 2014, Tadika Cahaya Komuniti was established in Allie’s community with support from World Vision Malaysia. Despite Allie’s lack of teaching experience, her neighbours recognised her potential and elected her as principal.

“It’s good to have this pre-school, as our village is very far from the government pre-school and the transportation costs for sending children there are high. With early childhood education now available in the community, we can see progress in our children,” said Allie.

To increase her knowledge, Allie took part in pre-school teachers’ training. She became known as a dedicated and enthusiastic teacher, but she knew she was capable of more. With World Vision’s support, Allie pursued a Diploma in Early Childhood Education from Open University Malaysia (OUM).

However, juggling work, study and home life would prove daunting.

Allie’s salary is low compared to the market rate for pre-school teachers, so she couldn’t support her family on it. Time was also a headache. Allie found herself sitting for online exams at 2AM or doing assignments at the kindergarten after hours. She travelled two hours into town on weekends for classes, and even during COVID-19, she had to travel out to access the internet for online study. This all took a toll on Allie’s personal life.

A Beacon in Her Community

World Vision recognised the challenges Allie and her family faced, so we encouraged them to join the Farmers' Group. Allie and the group members cultivate rice and seasonal vegetables for income. When we last met her, ginger was in season. “We use it at home, contribute it to other households, and sell it,” Allie shared.

Grateful for the support she and the community have received, Allie passionately participates in World Vision activities as a community volunteer and Children's Club Facilitator. One of her contributions is preparing nutritious meals for children alongside other volunteer mothers.

Allie’s days are a careful balancing act of family, community, and work. “I try to plan ahead, so I can manage things easily,” she explains. “But sometimes I relieve stress by hanging out with my cousins.”

A Continuing Journey

On 17 October 2023, Allie graduated with a diploma from OUM, equipped and empowered to better teach children in her community. For Allie, learning will be a lifelong journey, but she knows better than anyone that when there's a will, there's a way.

The challenges remain daunting, but Allie’s commitment is unshakeable. “I believe everything happens for a reason and that this pre-school is a blessing to many. So, I'm determined to serve for as long as I can.”

Allie Latin is not just a woman with many hats; she is a testament to the power of determination, community support, and the impact one individual can make in the lives of many. Her commitment to nurturing the minds and hearts of children is nothing short of inspiring.

World Vision supports local rural communities and incredible people like Allie through our Malaysia Assistance Fund. Learn more about it and make a contribution today!

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