GIYSON is a very smart and energetic twelve year old from the village of Boukandrice up in the mountains above Galette Chambon. He lives with his parents and brother. His parents try to support their family as vendors in the local market, but the economy is extremely difficult right now, so it is hard to put food on the table. Giyson is one of about 15 students who walk to school every day by setting out from their village before daylight at 4 in the morning. They all walk together for their safety and their parents take turns walking with the whole group. Giyson loves being a part of this group because it represents hope for his future. He knows that getting an education in Haiti is a luxury and a privilege and he does not take it for granted. He is super excited because he is now finishing up the 6th grade, so that means that next year he will promote to the high school and his classes won’t start until 1:00 pm. That means he won’t be leaving his village at 4 am, and he will be walking with the high school students! That’s exciting to him. Of course, that will depend on whether or not he gets a sponsor. This year, the principal allowed him to go to school even though he didn’t have a uniform nor could he pay tuition. The principal said that he would allow Giyson to start school with the expectation of getting a sponsor before next year. Giyson prays every day that he does get a sponsor! He is thankful for the opportunity! Giyson enjoys playing with friends, studying his lessons, and working around the house. His favorite subject in school is mathematics, and when he grows up he wants to become an attorney!