Hello everyone! My name is Mirana and I am from Madagascar. Nine years ago, I dreamed of studying in the United States. I had just earned my bachelor’s degree in marketing and international commerce in Madagascar in 2016, but my family couldn’t afford to help me pursue further education abroad. I had ambition but not the means. So, I began working by selling snacks on the street, doing retail, makeup artist, and serving in local restaurants. I did everything I could to save money. Every job was a step toward a dream I refused to abandon.

In 2019, I found an opportunity to work on a cruise ship, but I needed funds for the required training. So, I kept working, saving, and in 2022, I was finally hired as a snack attendant and server assistant. It took more sacrifices, and more long hours, 13 to 14 hours a day, seven days a week, often without a single day off. It was exhausting, but I held onto my goal. It helped me to get more savings. After one contract, I returned home and started a small restaurant with my sister.

In 2023, I discovered the J-1 trainee program. I spent a year gathering the $7,500 needed to join this program. By God’s grace, I succeeded. In June 2024, I arrived in Florida and began my one-year training in food and beverage service at a beach club. That experience opened the door to something even bigger: admission to an MBA program in California.

Now, in 2025 I am finally living the dream I fought for—studying for my master’s degree in the U.S. I’m proud of what I’ve achieved. I’m the only member of my family to pursue higher education, and they’ve supported me with everything they could. They believed in me, and they continue to believe in me to succeed and become the pride of the family. During this academic study, I have to travel to California every two months for in-person classes while living and working in Florida. Between tuition, rent, and travel, the financial strain is growing.

This fundraiser is for someone who never gave up. Someone who worked street corners in Madagascar, cruise ships, and kitchens to earn her place in a classroom in California.

I’m not asking loudly. I’m simply placing this here; in case someone out there believes in quiet perseverance and the power of education to transform lives across continents. In case you believe in the fact that holding to your dream by making lots of sacrifices and hard work will one day pay. Every contribution helps me continue this journey with dignity and hope.

Thank you for reading and your help.