Teresa Augusto Journey: the education journey was never easy for Teresa Augusto. She was born in Buene, an island in the Machanga district, and she is youngest of four siblings and daughter of a traditional healer mother and peasant father. From early age, she faced the challenges of rural life: Buene’s primary school offered only grades 1 to 5, and for many children, continuing education was simply not an option. “It wasn’t easy for me. To reach the sixth grade, I needed a lot of courage and help from dedicated people,” recalls Teresa.
The role of the teacher António Massinda
The help came from António Massinda, originally from Nova Sofala and then headmaster of Buene Primary School. He believed in the potential of children and guided not only his pupils but also their parents on how to keep education going. For Teresa and other children from remote communities like Buene, Ampara, Hambanhe, and Chiconde, Massinda organised journeys to the School of Barada Mission, managed by ESMABAMA , crossing the sea by boat and canoe, spending the night and day on the way, walking part of the route, and ensuring they arrived safely.
Massinda’s commitment went beyond children. He encouraged adults to join literacy centres, proving that learning is a lifelong opportunity. In adition, Massinda had himself studied at the Barada Mission and was determined to ensure that other children could also continue their education.
Teresa was Education with Discipline and Care
At the Barada Mission, Teresa Augusto discovered that learning meant more than just academic content. There was a strong emphasis on behaviour, good manners, and respectful coexistence. “The teachers and headmasters welcomed us with both warmth and discipline, teaching us that respect and solidarity are just as important as knowledge,” Teresa says. This experience shaped not only her academic path but also her character.
Challenges and resilience of Teresa Augusto
Barada
Life outside the classroom was far from easy. Teresa lost her father, and shortly afterwards, her eldest brother who had helped fund her studies. Financial hardship followed, but her mother, despite being a traditional healer, always encouraged her to pursue conventional medicine.
From school to nursing: A chance to change lives
Teresa Augusto health center- Barada
Through determination, Teresa Augusto completed secondary school with excellent grades and went on to study at the Institute of Health Sciences in Beira, graduating as a General Nurse.
She began her career at Búzi Rural Hospital in 2017, but soon returned to the Barada Mission, the very place that had shaped her future. “It was with great pride and joy that I was transferred to a place that contributed so much to my education. Here, I know I inspire students and young people in the community,” she affirms.
Today, Teresa not only cares for patients but also opens her home to nieces and the children of neighbours from Buene, ensuring they can attend the mission school and have access to quality education. “For me, the greatest satisfaction is helping other children achieve their dreams,” she says.
Recognition and Inspiration for the Future
Teresa Augusto recognised as best nurse at Barada health centre
Teresa’s dedication has not gone unnoticed. In 2025, she was awarded Best Health Worker at the Barada Health Centre, officially recognised by the Búzi district government. Her work continues to inspire, especially young girls from the Barada Mission who dream of becoming nurses or doctors.
“Seeing young people motivated to study and dream of becoming nurses or doctors is what drives me. Knowing my story can inspire others is a gift beyond price,” she says.
Carimo Chiar (director of the Barada health centre) and Teresa Augusto (nurse at the Barada health centre)
Though proud of her journey, Teresa still has ambitions. She dreams of continuing her studies and pursuing a degree in general medicine. Her story is proof that, even in the face of family and economic hardship, education, discipline, and the support of committed mentors can transform lives creating opportunities, strengthening communities, and inspiring future generations.
