I WAS 8 YEARS OLD. I WAS LIVING WITH MY MOTHER AND THE PERPETRATOR WHO WAS A VERY FAITHFUL CHRISTIAN.
Life was easy until one fateful day, I realized that it was all a lie. Things started to change. The person I knew as humble and quiet turned out to be a monster. He became extremely violent and subjected my mom to physical violence and economic control. As a result, life became increasingly hard. We would stay at home for months without going to school because he would spend all the money that was meant for school fees.
FINDING HOME
I met Freely in Hope at a time when I desperately needed psychological, physical, and emotional support. I was not only provided with a school, but I found a home. FIH has been a place that not only accepted me for who I am, but also supported me in dealing with my trauma. The amount of strength and courage in each member of this wonderful community has taught me lessons that I will take with me wherever I go. FIH has given me the ability to reach out to others who have had experiences similar to mine. In my everyday interaction with other survivors, a new sense of hope is renewed within me. I am happy because I was able to continue my studies; I am currently pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree in Commerce. I keep pressing on in my journey towards healing, it is not easy, but every single step is worth it.
MY DREAM
I want to become a motivational speaker and inspire people with my story globally, as well as mentoring those who have shared my experience. I also want to participate in financial initiatives to help end sexual violence. The opportunities that education provides will help me be successful and achieve my dream. I want to create safe spaces for survivors to speak out against injustices in their communities. I believe that one day, both men and women will work together, taking the responsibility of seeing justice restored to those victimized by sexual violence. When I share my story, I hope that survivors suffering in silence will find hope and reach out for support.
EQUIP SURVIVOR-LEADERS LIKE Stella.
Survivors of child sexual abuse are powerful advocates in the fight against sexual abuse. A $50 monthly donation will help 1 survivor receive safe housing to help them heal, grow, and thrive!
