In the middle of September, the Lighthouse kids headed back to school, with everyone advancing to the next class.

It’s no doubt this year has been marked by change—and significant change at that.

One year older, one year wiser, one year a little more tainted by the pain and suffering of this world—these “kids” can hardly be called that anymore. In fact, I almost feel awkward when I address them as timoun yo (children). I look at them and squeeze them tight, some much taller than me now. Their voices lower, their opinions a bit stronger, and their dreams louder, bolder, and bigger.

After passing the 9th grade government exams on her first try this summer, Kimberly has started her first year of high school. She is the oldest girl at the Lighthouse, obedient and fun-loving. Here is how she sees herself, just shy of 17.

Guidelande, known by everyone as Lovely, is often the first to volunteer to help at the Lighthouse and is marked by a gentle spirit. She is the quietest of the girls at Lighthouse and uses her words sparingly—perhaps why she chose to leave several of her “three things” responses simply at two.

Next month will mark Fedner’s fourth anniversary living at the Lighthouse. While his quick smile and sense of humor are his most obvious personality traits, Fedner is intellectual and inventive, and motivated by a desire to help his family. Here is a look at how he views himself at age 17.