Desta

At just 13 years old, Desta dreams of becoming a scientist and solving problems through scientific studies. But before she can achieve that, she’s focused on her education at her school, where she’s in the seventh grade. Desta's friends and family think her name suits her—Desta means joy or happiness in Amharic. Her bright personality and sense of humor stand out, and she loves playing with her friends. But school wasn’t always as enjoyable as it is today.

A Struggle for Safe Water

Desta has been attending her school since kindergarten, and for years, access to clean drinking water was a challenge. “The water wasn’t safe for drinking,” she recalls. “Municipal water wasn’t always available, so we had to rely on stored water from tanks. Sometimes we avoided drinking or washing at school.” The school had only one handwashing station, and even that was only useful when water was available.

A Transformation with Splash

Things changed dramatically when Splash arrived. The school received new water stations, along with proper filtration, making clean drinking water available all the time. “It makes school life much more enjoyable,” Desta says. “Now, we don’t have to worry about whether the water is safe.”

In addition to the new infrastructure, students participated in hygiene training. “It has positively influenced my understanding of cleanliness and improved my behavior,” Desta shares. She took this knowledge home, sharing what she learned with her family.

Becoming a Hygiene Ambassador

Desta’s enthusiasm for hygiene education led her to join the school’s hygiene club. “Our teacher introduced us to the club, and the new infrastructure caught my attention,” she explains. Without hesitation, she joined and quickly embraced her role.

Through the hygiene club, Desta learned about clean water, water treatment methods, proper handwashing techniques, and the importance of hygiene. She and her fellow members spread awareness through songs, dramas, and poems. They also monitor students washing their hands at lunchtime and ensure that soap is available at all stations.

One moment that stood out to Desta was during a training session. “The trainer asked us to raise our hands if we thought they were clean. I raised my hand, but then he asked me to wash them with soap. That’s when I learned how essential soap is for proper handwashing, and I’ve practiced it ever since.”

Proud to Make a Difference

Desta’s involvement in the hygiene club has boosted her confidence. Presenting hygiene messages during the school’s flag ceremony has made her feel proud, knowing that she’s making an impact. “Our school even hosted a recognition ceremony for hygiene ambassadors, which motivated me and my friends to participate more.”

Desta and her fellow hygiene club members hope to increase participation in hygiene-related activities and ensure that every student embraces good hygiene practices. “Being a hygiene ambassador makes me proud,” she says with a smile.

Thanks to Splash’s work, Desta and her classmates now have access to clean water every day, improving their health and well-being. And with young leaders like Desta taking action, the effects of clean water and good hygiene will continue for years to come.