A Lift Built on God's Faithfulness

Before Matthew learned to remember his mother, she passed away, leaving him without the comfort of her love and care. When his father died a few years later, Matthew found himself in the care of his aging grandmother. Though she tried to provide for him, resources were limited, and she struggled to meet his needs. The early years of Matthew’s life carried uncertainty, but even in those difficult circumstances, God’s care surrounded him.

As his grandmother grew older and could no longer care for him, Matthew’s cousin stepped in. Though he loved Matthew, providing an education and a stable future proved overwhelming. Wanting something better for the child, he reached out to the Rafiki Foundation.

Matthew arrived at the Rafiki Village Nigeria in October 2023 and discovered a home filled with people ready to welcome him. Around the table, in the classroom, and during family devotions, he began experiencing the care and belonging every child needs.

From his earliest days at Rafiki, Matthew showed a remarkable eagerness to learn and serve. He loved being first in line, not to be ahead of others but to participate sooner and assist those around him. Curiosity seemed to come naturally to Matthew. New words quickly became part of his vocabulary, lessons stayed with him, and every new activity brought another opportunity for him to learn. Whether sorting objects in preschool, learning to read, or helping younger children, Matthew’s curiosity and determination stood out.

Even more important than his academic growth was the work God began in his heart.

Morning and evening devotions became treasured moments for Matthew. Through songs, Scripture, and conversations about Jesus, God’s Word began shaping the heart of a young boy who loved to learn and serve.

One of Matthew’s favorite responsibilities became welcoming others. Each morning, when the Rafiki grandmother came to greet the children, Matthew would open the door, stand respectfully, and say, “Good morning, Kaka, how was your night?” He would then return to the line and encourage the other children to greet her as well. His kindness and respect revealed the servant’s heart God continued to cultivate in him.

As Matthew grew, so did his gifts. He excelled in school, developed a love for reading, and became known for his humor, intelligence, and willingness to help others. Teachers saw his leadership as he encouraged classmates, cared for younger children, and even volunteered to teach lessons to his classmates.

In 2017, Matthew experienced the greatest transformation of all when he placed his faith in Jesus Christ as his personal Savior and Lord. The little boy who arrived at Rafiki with so much uncertainty discovered a hope that would last forever.

Nearly fourteen years after arriving at Rafiki Village Nigeria, Matthew stood on the threshold of a new chapter. The little boy who once arrived needing care had grown into a university graduate prepared to use the gifts God had given him. In 2025, Matthew earned his degree in English Language from Plateau State University.

Looking back on his journey, Matthew expressed deep gratitude for the people who invested in his life. He recognized that the love, care, and support he received helped shape the man he became.

Today, we give thanks to God for Matthew Ishaya—for the child who found a home, the student who embraced learning, the young man who pursued excellence, and the follower of Christ who continues to seek God’s purpose for his life.

Matthew’s story reminds us that God can take a life marked by hardship and write a story filled with hope. Through his faithfulness and the love of his people, Matthew’s future changed forever.