Oumaïma Makhlouk is one of four Arts et Métiers students Arts et Métiers led a two-hour workshop on Saturday mornings for six young people with disabilities as part of Phares (a student tutoring program for young people with disabilities).
"In one year, I have seen the children transform. Mahé, 15, who was aggressive and had trouble talking to others, has integrated perfectly into the group. He came last week with a pound cake he had baked himself. And Hortensia, the youngest in the group, who couldn't express herself in public, now gets good grades for her presentations at school.
We are four Arts et Métiers students Arts et Métiers lead a two-hour workshop every Saturday morning for six young people with disabilities as part of Headlights.
The program we have set up is varied: culture, career guidance, sketches... We also organize outings. On the weekend of May 13, we went to London. Thanks to these activities, the children gain self-confidence and independence. They open up to others.
It was through an email from Florence Barnier I learned about this program. I signed up immediately because I am aware of the importance of children's education. I have seen too many difficulties faced by young Moroccans—especially young Moroccan women—in getting an education.
I was afraid that tutoring would take up too much of my time, but in the end, it's my breathing space for the week. It hasn't had any impact on my studies. Above all, I've learned to manage my time better. Today, my only fear is leaving the group. Strong bonds have been forged, and I hope the children will recreate the same atmosphere with the tutors who will take over.
