Life has tested me in ways I never imagined, but I continue to stand, driven by love and resilience. I share my home with my two children and my brother, two of whom face mental health challenges. For years, I sustained my family through a street-side business, but when the road expansion arrived, everything I had built came to a halt. Suddenly, our source of income vanished, and I was left struggling to feed my family. Determined to persevere, I began selling french fries at night with the small amount of equipment I owned. The profit from each sale went directly to purchasing food for our daily needs. Yet, some nights, sales were scarce, and there was nothing to put on the table.

Beyond the financial difficulties, my family carries deeper struggles. My son is autistic, and my brother battles ongoing mental health issues. When my husband abandoned us because of my son’s condition, I was left to navigate this journey alone. It was devastating, but I refused to let despair define our future. Finding the Transformational Community Development (TCD) Women’s Empowerment Center has been my refuge. Through hairstyling training and meaningful discussions on life’s challenges, I have found support, encouragement, and a renewed sense of hope. This space has strengthened me in my journey of raising my children, reminding me that I am not alone.

Despite the progress I am making, my greatest concern remains my son’s education. There is a school that caters to children with special needs, but the cost of transportation has kept me from enrolling him. He is my deepest worry, yet also my greatest motivation. My dream is to establish a small hairstyling business after completing my training—one that will not only sustain my family but also allow me to afford my son’s schooling, ensuring that he receives the education he deserves.

My daughter, too, has aspirations. She has always wanted to learn computer skills and English, and through the Women’s Empowerment Center’s E-Library and free language training, she is now thriving in her studies. With enthusiasm, she attends classes, and I see a remarkable improvement in her performance.

Though the road is difficult, I continue to push forward. I refuse to give in to hardship because I believe in a brighter future, not only for myself but for my children. With courage and determination, I am building a new path, one step at a time.

Thank you!

Written by Fidel, GHNI National Field Leader