A Path to Independence: Aicha’s Story
What does it take to transform fear into confidence and challenges into accomplishments? For Aicha, a Moroccan immigrant, it took bravery, determination, and the Cape Fear Literacy Council (CFLC). With a young child and a life in a new country, Aicha knew learning English wasn’t just a goal—it was the key to the life she wanted to build.
“When we first started our tutoring, Aicha had a small child that was having health issues as a result of a premature birth. She wanted the classes on Zoom, so we have been on Zoom for the entire time,” Glenda shares.
Tasks many take for granted, like speaking to a doctor, were major hurdles. “When we started, Aicha’s husband had to take off work to drive her to the doctor,” Glenda recalls. “He did all of the talking.” But as Aicha’s lessons progressed, so did her ability to communicate. Now, she navigates these situations with ease, speaking for herself and advocating for her child’s needs.
Each tailored Zoom lesson brought Aicha closer to the independence she craved. “My teacher is a beautiful lady named Glenda, who has a beautiful heart. She encourages me and gives me enthusiasm. She works with me in organized steps. I loved learning the language with her and I loved her method. She provides me with all the help and everything I need to learn. She is always there and ready,” Aicha shares.
At a local food bank, Aicha not only secured resources for her own family but also stepped up to help others. “She was asked by a volunteer to assist with translation,” Glenda shares. That moment showed how far she’d come, from someone who needed help to someone who could offer it.
Her confidence continued to grow in everyday situations. “We were having class one day when the school called,” Glenda recalls. “The school was closing early. She asked me to give her a minute and she sent a text to her neighbor who has a child at the school. She read the text to me after she sent it and it was very good. It told the neighbor that the school had called and was closing and they would go together to get their children and she would pick her up in her car at 11:10.”
Through focused lessons and encouragement, Aicha developed practical skills to navigate her new life. She mastered medical terms to advocate for her family, prepared for and passed her citizenship test with confidence, began writing notes to her daughter’s teachers, and earned her driver’s license, giving her newfound freedom and mobility. These accomplishments are just the beginning for Aicha.
“Today I can write. I express my opinion. I give my voice and do all the duties. In the future I will find a good job and even have more friends,” she adds.
At CFLC, we’re honored to be part of Aicha’s journey. Her story reminds us that literacy is more than just learning to read—it’s about independence, opportunity, and the power to shape one’s own future.
Note from programs: Glenda was sent to us in participation with RSVP (Retired and Senior Volunteer Program). We are immensely grateful to have her as a part of our volunteer community. You can learn more about that program here.