Have you ever wondered what happens to a sponsored child after sponsorship?

Genny Romero is a former sponsored child who grew up amid poverty in Bucaramanga, Colombia.

But thanks, in part, to the love and support provided by her sponsor—Jane Crescenzi of King City, Ontario—Romero was able to discover her passions and follow her dreams.

Today, 25-year-old Romero is a sponsorship promoter for World Vision in her native country.

Recently, Romero and Crescenzi had the chance to ask each other five important questions and learn more about one another. See what they had to say.

5 Questions for Romero

What important things have happened in your life during the last five years?
I finished studying technology and began psychology. That was my dream. I have also been able to enjoy and recognize the loving care of God through working at World Vision.

What do you enjoy the most about working for World Vision?
It is not just a job, but also a way to contribute to the people. I feel an emotional commitment since I am an example for the children and youth of my community. I like to see the children experience the same feelings I used to have when I received motivating mail from my sponsor. I didn’t want to disappoint her.

If you had an opportunity to give a younger child in your community one piece of advice, what would it be?
Advising children is a constant in my life. I tell them that they can ask God to guide them and I teach them to obey their parents. I also tell them to keep fighting for their dreams because one day they can come true.

Have you travelled outside your community?
I’ve visited other cities in Colombia. I remember with happiness my first and only trip by plane. It was touching.

What has changed in your community over the years?
There are more parents committed to educating their children. There is also more economic stability and people are fulfilling their dreams.

5 Questions for Crescenzi

What expectations did you have for my community and me when you got involved in the sponsorship program?
I didn’t have specific expectations. But I hoped that the little I could offer would help provide education and health for a child and help a community to become self-sufficient.

What did your family and friends say when you decided to sponsor a child?
My children were enthusiastic and were happy to be involved. Other family members and friends were skeptical and didn’t believe that the money was being used to help the community. I now can tell them of the success of sponsorship.

When I attend local sponsor visits, I see my dream there: the possibility of giving you a hug and thanking you. What do you think about my dream coming true?
When I watch World Vision on television, I think what a wonderful experience it would be to see you and hug you, too.

Are you or any members of your family sponsoring a child?
I sponsor two girls, one in Colombia and one in India.

What advice would you give me today? Or what would you like to tell me?
Be a life learner and find time to explore and learn new things. I am proud of you and the goals you’ve achieved.