In a semi-desert village near Kankan, Guinea, 16-year-old Fodie grew up believing animals worked only through force. Like many children, he was taught that beating donkeys was necessary to make them carry heavy loads and support family livelihoods.
At 15, Fodie began working with his family donkey, Mulu, under harsh conditions — not from cruelty, but from tradition and lack of knowledge.
Everything changed when Fodie joined LAWCS’ humane education program at school. He learned that animals feel pain, fear, and kindness just like humans, and that proper care leads to healthier, stronger animals.
Fodie transformed his approach. He began giving Mulu water, proper food, and gentle care. Fear turned into trust, and today the two are partners and friends.
Now Fodie is a role model in his village, inspiring other children to treat animals with compassion.
His story shows that when children learn love, respect, and kindness toward animals, both animals and communities thrive — and one child’s compassion can transform a generation.
