Iniko* has long been thought of as the reserved, quiet child in his peer group. For as long as Back2Back staff have known him, they’ve believed he was simply an introverted young man who kept close to his siblings and himself. They felt one of the reasons he was so self-contained was a result of being held back in school; this is common in Nigeria, but not necessarily good for a child’s self-esteem. Iniko always followed his family, but never wanted to be the leader.
Iniko started attending Great Oaks Academy, Back2Back’s Trauma Informed School, and staff immediately saw a transformation take place. “He used to keep to himself, but now I see him walking and speaking with a renewed confidence,” explained Swanta Zakka, Back2Back staff. “He is thriving, leading those around him, and is more involved than ever in sports, especially basketball.” Iniko is also excelling academically and no longer runs the risk of being held back.
“We credit this drastic change to the safety he feels in the new school environment,” shared Swanta. “He clearly feels more comfortable and is realizing his own potential as the safe adults encourage it within him.”
Iniko appears to be significantly more…
