Maria was born in Moshi. From a young age she was looked after by her aunt, but her aunt neglected her and beat her. The police took her away and brought her to the Welfare Office. After a television broadcast her aunt came to collect her, but the Welfare Office and Mama Malaika (who meanwhile had been called in) did not want to let her go. The aunt was sent away and told to bring Maria's mother, so that we could discuss the history and what would happen with Maria in future. Neither of these ladies ever returned to collect Maria. She is a sweet and shy little girl who loves to do puzzles. School: Class 5 Primary School Likes in School: Science and English Wants to be when she grows up: Nurse Plays basketball and football At Malaika, she likes to help with the cooking.