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Rotary is truly international
WAVS received $68,000 from a Rotary International grant to purchase the machines and equipment installed in the new training center. It was fitting to have representatives from both the Guinea-Bissau Rotary chapter and Ed Sterner from the Lake Forest Park Rotary together as we dedicated the new training center.
The carpentry program is now selling products
Just like the welding program, a large part of the carpentry program is focused on allowing the student to get hands-on experience. The carpentry program is now selling a wide range of items and commissioned projects including cabinetry, beds, chairs, tables and more. See “Around Campus” for more pictures.
WAVS hosts U.S. supporters in Guinea-Bissau
For one week in March, a group of longtime supporters from the greater Seattle and Fresno areas visited WAVS to learn more about its vocational training programs and the work God is doing Guinea-Bissau.
Around Campus
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While the team was in Guinea-Bissau they had the opportunity to meet with students in their classes. The welding class even had projects for the team to test their hand at welding.
The landscaping project continues and more progress is being made day by day.
Transportation for the team included riding in a large van, known in Guinea-Bissau as a Toca-Toca.
The welding students loading up a recently commissioned project for delivery.
Welding students recently built their own lockers! These lockers allow them to stow their jumpsuits, work boots and equipment between classes.
One of the visitors, Tim Miller, Missions Director at Family Bible Church (Oak Harbor), was invited to lead the student devotional during his time at the school.
One of the tables that the welding and carpentry students collaborated on building.
A bed and side tables the carpentry students recently completed. They have learned so much since they began in September 2025!
A cabinet project recently completed by the carpentry students.
Dining table and chairs completed by the carpentry students.
Behind the Scenes
Take a tour of the new training center
Take a behind-the-scenes video tour of the new training center facility! The building opened up just a few months ago and is already serving dozens of students. Watch the full narrated tour in the video below or watch the 2-minute version here.
SPOTLIGHT
Meet Januarda
At 17 years old, Januarda already has a clear vision for her future. She dreams of becoming a journalist—someone who can understand her community, share important stories, and advocate for the good of her country.
Her path hasn’t been without challenges. When she first shared her goal, her mother was hesitant, concerned about the risks journalists face in Guinea-Bissau. But Januarda remained determined. She believes that by continuing her education and learning new languages, she can better understand the people around her and use her voice to make a difference.
“I want to understand my community and fight for what is good through my work.”
That desire led her to enroll in English Level 1 at the WAVS vocational school. After hearing about the school’s strong teaching and the opportunities it provides, she knew it was the right place to begin building toward her future.
Looking ahead, Januarda hopes to be working as both a journalist and an interpreter, using her skills to serve her country and connect with people from all walks of life. She is proud of the step she has taken and excited for what lies ahead.
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