How I started

In 2023, I started the Motherly Heart Organisation with just 12 storybooks that belonged to my daughter. It all began with a simple idea, sharing these books with children in my community who loved stories but didn’t have access to them. As I sat down to read with them, I realized that while they were eager and curious, many of them couldn’t read on their own. That’s when I knew I had to do more.

I began reaching out to organizations and kind-hearted individuals, asking for donations of storybooks—whether new or used. To my delight, I received a donation of 450 books! This was a game-changer. Suddenly, so many more children were excited to join our community program. I also visited nearby schools where these kids attended and asked if we could bring the program to them. Without hesitation, the teachers said, “Yes!”

Over the past year and five months, I have learned something truly magical: there’s incredible power in storytelling. Some people think a child can only learn to read when a teacher is standing in front of them, but that’s not enough. Books—storybooks, especially—are just as important. I have watched children discover new words, their eyes lighting up with curiosity as they ask, “What does this mean?” It’s moments like these that remind me why this work matters.

When you give a child a book they love, it’s like watching them receive their very first doll—they hold onto it, treasure it, and can’t wait to explore it. Storytelling keeps them engaged, sparks their love for learning, and even helps them become better listeners. It’s amazing to see the impact firsthand.

Because of this, my search for books never ends. My dream is to create a community library for kids aged 3 to 15, a place where they can fall in love with reading and grow their literacy skills. I’m always on the lookout for more storybooks—old or new—and I’d love to connect with authors or anyone who wants to help make books available to children from low-income families.