New American of the Month

Matuda Osman

matuda osman

The oldest of six siblings, Matuda arrived in St. Louis 10 years ago with her parents as refugees from Ethiopia, having been displaced by the fighting, civil strife and turmoil in that country. Now 17 years old, Matuda is a junior at Soldan International Studies High School. Shortly after her arrival, she and her sisters accepted an invitation to visit the Peace Center from Rev. Eddie Mekasha. She has been a regular participant ever since and has now told us about her experience.

E-News: You have been coming to the Peace Center on a regular basis for most of the past 10 years. Why?

Matuda:  Because it is a safe place where I can meet new people. I have always enjoyed meeting people from different countries, and trying to understand them. I also enjoy trying new things.

E-News: Why does the Peace Center matter to you?

Matuda: People make me feel like they want me to be there. Also, there are interesting things to do there. I like the After School Tutoring Program, and I really like the dance class. The place has given me a sense of hope.

E-News: What have you enjoyed the most?

Matuda: I like the computer classes with Mr. Gary, and I really like the dance class led by Miss Diana. What I have liked the most, however, are the Bible studies. Because of them, I have been able to come closer to God. They have given me a sense of hope. I also enjoy helping at the Peace Center, like babysitting kids when parents come for the ESL classes.

E-News: Who has helped you the most?

Matuda: Several people have helped me including especially, Pastor Stanish. The person who has helped me the most, however, is Miss Diana. She helped me to know Jesus, and it has changed my life. Note: Diana Wolf serves as the Dance Class Coordinator.

E-News: What are your future plans?

Matuda: I want to go to college, and study to become a nurse. I want to help make a change in the lives of other people like people are doing at the Peace Center.

Regarding Matuda, Diana Wolf puts it this way: “Through dance, Matuda found something she was good at and enjoyed. Through the discipline of dance and the spiritual discovery of Jesus, she began to have hope and developed self-confidence. She also learned how to focus on a goal and work to achieve it. I watched as the Holy Spirit transformed her from an uncertain and sometimes angry person into a caring and take charge person who thrives on helping others, especially little children and babies.”

Rev. Allan Buckman with Matuda Osman and Diana Wolf