Sofia is one of the many resilient women in Ethiopia who aspire to overcome life’s challenges, raise her child, and become self-sufficient while supporting her family. In 2010, she moved to Saudi Arabia as a domestic worker. Sofia worked tirelessly, sending her entire salary back to her family, with the hope that they would save part of it for her dream of building a house and starting a business. After renewing her contract several times, her work permit eventually expired. Despite this, she continued working in various households until she was arrested and deported back to Ethiopia.

Unlike many of her friends who were also deported, Sofia remained hopeful because she believed she had saved enough money to build her house and start her business. However, upon her return, she discovered that her family had not saved the money she had sent. Her 11 years of hard work and dreams were shattered, leaving her empty-handed.

At this critical juncture in her life, Sofia met Jemal, an older man with two wives. Jemal promised to rent a house for her, and she gratefully accepted his offer. However, after a few months, Jemal began visiting Sofia’s house, demanding that she begin a relationship with him. With no other options, Sofia complied. Over time, her health deteriorated, and she experienced continuous pain in her uterus. During a medical screening conducted by Transformational Community Development (TCD) volunteer doctors, Sofia discovered that she had contracted a sexually transmitted disease. Despite repeatedly telling Jemal about her pain, he continued to abuse her.

Today, Sofia is one of the beneficiaries of GHNI’s Women’s Empowerment Center in Addis Ababa. She is receiving counseling, medical care, and vocational training in sewing. The Women’s Empowerment Center is not just a training center for women like Sofia; it is a place of hope and renewal.

Thank you!

Written by Fidel, GHNI National Field Leader