One night with Nóra L. Ritók

One night with Nóra L. Ritók

Within the framework of the National Library Days, the Jászberény City Library had a lot of programmes for its readers this week, and we joined the Friday evening performance with some of the members of the Jászság 4 group. The library’s guest – the founder of the Igazgyöngy Foundation – was Nóra L. Ritók, whose life, work, will to do something and selfless love for children can be a role model for all of us.

Today we attended a fantastic lecture where we got to experience how other people live, and the kind of community. Unfortunately, there are many people who cannot afford to eat enough. It may not be their fault. They are just as human as we are and we should help them, not hurt them. What we have, should be appreciated, because others would be happy to have it. Today I have learnt a lot and I have had a lot of fun. Thank you very much for this day!” ☺️ Sas Maja

The concept of the presentation was very interesting. We could now get an insight into the work of the True Pearl Foundation. For me, this extreme poverty is almost unimaginable, as today’s young people have probably never heard of it in their lives, because we don’t have to live in such conditions. Even now, it is still incomprehensible to me what is happening in the world that we cannot see, experience or imagine. And I think it’s a very good thing that this foundation is trying to help people with these kind of conditions. Kovács Hanna

My daughter mentioned that she would like to go to the library with Andi néni on Friday for a lecture. I asked her what would it be about and I found it interesting, so I joined the group. I was moved by Nora’s lecture, which brought tears to my eyes many times. We got an insight into their work, the difficulties they face every day. When she spoke, it made us think about the ‘good’ work we have to do. We work, we have a salary, we have a roof over our heads. My children are not starving, they can study. The Csányi Foundation helps us a lot, I can’t be grateful enough. Kovácsné Róna Orsolya, a parent

Nóra writes: “I left state education in 1999 and founded the True Pearl Foundation. Over ten years, the methodology that is now True Pearl was established, combining a child-centred approach, compensating for disadvantage and developing social skills. By 2010, it became clear to me that school alone could not make a difference to children living in generational poverty. So we brought in other elements, first crisis management, then family care, and the social component was constantly expanded. Eight years ago, we started an opportunity strategy in Toldo, which we plan to continue for at least 20 years. This work is incredibly exciting. The big challenge is whether we can map out a workable path, define the methodology and framework for development in an adaptable way, and move a problem from the depths that it has never been. I believe it is possible to build an inclusive, better world. I am empowered by the support of the people who follow and help the Foundation, which is much needed in this work. I am a lucky person, because I get to do what I love. If I could start again, I would choose to do it.”

An insight into the work of the Foundation: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y5-LXUQbbwo