He Saw Potential in Me: From Poverty to Pursuing a Dream
Born into poverty in Moldova and carrying heavy family responsibilities, Alex’s path has never been easy. But with faith, resilience, and the support of a Mission Without Borders scholarship, he is now in university preparing to inspire the next generation as a teacher.26th August 2025
Alex Tofan has dreamed of becoming a Maths teacher ever since he was a little boy, his eyes lit with the same brightness then as they do today at age 22.
But Alex’s journey has been anything but ordinary.
Growing up in hardship
Born into poverty in Moldova, Alex grew up without a father. His older brother lives with severe learning difficulties, and when Alex was still a teenager, his mother was admitted to a psychiatric hospital for two years. During that time, Alex shouldered the responsibility of caring for both his brother and his uncle, a heavy burden for a boy so young.
Balancing studies and responsibilities
Today, Alex is a third-year university student, training to become a Maths and Computer Science teacher. Alongside his studies, he remains the main carer and provider for his family.
“I take care of the family finances and well-being. The budget comes from the pensions my mother and brother receive, and I’m the one who has to make sure it covers all the expenses. “Every day is different. I wake up around 6 or 7am and often go to bed past midnight. After my classes end at 3pm, I come home, help my mother with chores, and then prepare for lessons the next day.” - Alex explained.
Balancing a demanding academic schedule with his family responsibilities often feels grueling, but Alex draws strength from his faith.
“I find it difficult to cope with everything. Every day I end up tired to the limit, but the Lord gives me strength,” he said.
The difference your support makes
A scholarship makes dreams possible
Alex’s journey with Mission Without Borders began in second grade, when he was enrolled in our Child Sponsorship Program. From the start, staff member Ion saw something special in him.
“He saw potential in me and has encouraged and supported me since middle school,” Alex said. “He still supports me emotionally, spiritually, and financially through Mission Without Borders.”
That encouragement and practical help have carried Alex into the next stage of his life: university. Through MWB’s Scholarship Program, he is now able to pursue his long-held dream of becoming a teacher.
Alongside his studies, Alex has found joy in leading Bible studies, helping with church outreach, and building a strong Christian community on campus.
“What inspires me to become a teacher is my love for children and my love for teaching,” he said.
“I want to be a good teacher of mathematics and computer science and to be a good example for my students, teaching many generations to change the world for the better.”
Join us in building brighter futures
Every day, Alex moves closer to his dream, supported by his faith, his family, and the care of Mission Without Borders.
You can be part of more stories like Alex’s!
Your gift to our Scholarship Program helps young people in Eastern Europe overcome the odds and build brighter futures. Donate today.
