Velma: Mentoring the Next Generation
As an aspiring teacher, I feel equipped with knowledge of how I can help my students who have experienced trauma.
As an aspiring teacher, I feel equipped with knowledge of how I can help my students who have experienced trauma.
My ultimate dream is to open a safe home for girls who have been rescued from prostitution, are at risk of being sexually abused, and have no one to fight for them. This home will be filled with hope, faith, and love for dreams to be restored so that they are able to go to school, just as I have.
Maryanne’s story is one of courage, resilience, and hope. As Freely in Hope’s Child Protection Program Coordinator, Maryanne leads sexual abuse prevention programs across Kenya. She equips children, parents, teachers, and organizational leaders with lifesaving knowledge about consent, body safety, and reporting abuse. As she is creating awareness about sexual violence, her dream is to build an art center for children!
Children with special needs are also vulnerable to sexual abuse, and I see high incidences of sexual abuse cases among my students. As a teacher, I use the knowledge Freely in Hope has given me to advocate for children with unique abilities.
I want to ensure that the system adjusts to meet the needs of disadvantaged women in the community, and until we see change, we can empower these women to be the ones who will take a stand within their spheres of influence.
Because of Freely in Hope, I realized that I am a survivor and no longer a victim. I am more confident in myself which is why I am able to fight sexual violence.
I hope that other girls will realize how powerful they are, and use this power to bring change to their communities and the world.
My vision is to see the girl child in school, empowered and independent. I encourage the girls that I teach and interact with to better their lives through education.
FIH gives girls opportunities to change, grow, and most importantly, achieve their dreams. The experience at FIH molds us to be better and stronger women in society.
Learn more on how we’re ending sexual violence in our communities! Subscribe to our newsletters to find out how you can get involved.