My name is Hilária Limpo, and I am originally from Nhamatanda, in Sofala Province. My journey is proof that when education meets opportunity, dreams can become reality.
During this Women’s Month, I share my story as a testimony that investing in girls’ education transforms lives, families, and communities.
Currently, I am a university student at the Faculty of Agricultural Sciences of Lúrio University in Niassa Province. Being here represents the fulfillment of a great dream that began long before university — a dream built with effort, persistence, and the support of people and institutions who believed in my potential.
My life took a new direction when I became part of the Gorongosa National Park Youth Club. It was there that I had access to a unique opportunity: applying for an internship for youth from the Park’s Sustainable Development Zone. This internship was not only a professional experience, but also a moment of personal discovery.
Photos – Samo Jossefa Samo
During the internship, I had the opportunity to interact with and learn from several researchers and scientific technicians from the Science Department. I observed work being carried out in different areas, from ecosystem conservation to environmental studies. At the same time that I was doing my internship, I was also preparing for the university entrance exam, balancing my studies with practical field experience.
“Living daily in contact with nature, observing biodiversity, and meeting professionals truly committed to environmental conservation awakened a deep passion in me.”
It was then that I realized I also wanted to contribute to protecting the environment and serving my community through scientific knowledge. This experience directly influenced the choice of the course I am currently pursuing: Forestry Engineering.
During the internship, teachers hired by the Park to support the interns helped us prepare for entry into higher education. Although I was admitted to university, I faced family and financial challenges that threatened to end my academic journey. I shared my situation with the program coordinators and, thanks to that trust, I received a scholarship funded by the Alexander Gruner Foundation in partnership with the Park.
This scholarship has become a true pillar in my academic, personal, and professional life. It is not only about financing my studies, but also about sustaining my hope and reinforcing my responsibility to give back to society.
I believe that investing in girls’ education is one of the most effective ways to combat early marriage, keep girls in school, and promote the sustainable development of communities.
“Today, I see myself as a living example that it is possible to change destinies through education.”
I have participated in talks with women and girls, including Girls’ Club groups and local schools, where I share my experience and speak about environmental conservation, education, and perseverance. My message is clear: do not give up on your dreams.
My greatest dream is to one day represent Mozambique at international events and mobilize support so that more young people can access the same opportunities that transformed my life.
I aspire to become a great researcher and contribute to the scientific, social, and environmental development of my country. I want to be a reference — a bridge between knowledge and the community — demonstrating that remembering our roots is essential to building the future.
Internship programs like the one I had the opportunity to participate in have a profound impact: they open horizons, empower young people, strengthen communities, and shape future leaders committed to conservation and sustainable development. When we work together with a common purpose, we can protect the environment, reduce deforestation, fight illegal practices, and build a better country.
This Women’s Month, I leave a simple but powerful message:
“Educating a girl is educating a society.”
Girls, study with determination.
Parents, allow your daughters to study.
Together, we will build a more sustainable, prosperous, and healthy future.
We are ready to conserve the environment — together.
I like the idea of blending dreams and purpose in this way. What inspired the focus on Gorongosa?