About the Teacher: Natalia Vargas

Meet Natalia Vargas, a dedicated and passionate medical student whose journey to becoming a doctor is as inspiring as it is unique. At 26 years old, Natalia, originally from Novo Hamburgo in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, embodies the spirit of perseverance and compassion that is at the heart of Projecto Amor.

From a young age, Natalia dreamed of becoming a doctor. Growing up in a humble family brimming with love and support, she was taught the values of faith, hope, and the importance of caring for others. Despite the financial and academic challenges she faced in Brazil, Natalia's unwavering belief in her dreams kept her going. Her numerous attempts to pass the medical school entrance exams in Brazil were met with setbacks, but she never lost hope.

In 2019, an opportunity to visit Mozambique with her father and a group of church missionaries opened a new chapter in her life. During her visit, Natalia engaged in community service, helping local communities and experiencing the profound and enduring impact of giving back. These experiences deepened her love for Africa and highlighted the transformative power of compassion and service.

Returning to Brazil, Natalia soon realized that pursuing her medical studies in Mozambique was a more accessible option due to the lower costs. However, her arrival in March 2019 coincided with Cyclone Idai, a devastating event that left her and many others without electricity, internet, or water for 30 days. Isolated from her family and facing the destruction around her, Natalia's dream seemed more distant than ever. Yet, it was her deep-seated faith and optimism that saw her through this challenging period.

As the city began to rebuild, so too did Natalia's hopes. Today, she is in her fourth year of medical school, more committed than ever to her goal of becoming a doctor and making a difference in the lives of others. Natalia believes strongly in the power of education for children, especially in Mozambique, as a foundation for a better future. She is dedicated to investing in the education of Mozambique's children, nurturing their potential to become future leaders in various fields, including medicine.

Natalia's journey from Brazil to Mozambique is a testament to her resilience, faith, and unwavering commitment to her dreams. Through Projecto Amor, she hopes to inspire others to believe in the power of education and the difference one person can make in the world.