A Mother’s Struggle and Her Daughters’ Journey of Hope

Strength in Silence

Laurinda and Marcia, two sisters and long-time volunteers, visited our studio today and received a warm welcome. Both have been actively involved in our programs, including the Africa Educates Her Campaign, Ladies Without Plastic and Corona Voice, where they danced and sang. Marcia also took part in our 2023 Breast Cancer Campaign.

During the visit, they shared that they are currently studying in public schools.

When asked what they remembered about the impact of the pandemic five years ago, they described it as horrifying. Their studies were interrupted, and they felt as if they were living like prisoners—unable to move freely or see friends and family. They thank God that this dark period has passed.

After our conversation, Laurinda received her pack of reusable menstrual pads to help her reduce her carbon footprint and ease financial pressure, as she mentioned that school books are very expensive. Marcia and Tatiana had already received their kits in October, when our Founder, Sofonie Dala, visited their home. During that visit, two other women—friends of the family—were also present and received free reusable pad kits.

Against All Odds

Tatiana’s Family Story of Survival, Service, and Resilience

Did you know?

Laurinda and Marcia are daughters of Miss Luisa, also known as Tatiana—a single mother of four (three girls and one boy). Although she completed her medical training, she has been unable to find formal employment.

To support her family, she works as an early-morning street vendor, selling corn pap to workers at 5 a.m. She leaves home at 4 a.m., when it is still dark, putting her safety at risk. She shared that she has been attacked by gang members several times, losing money and mobile phones.

Tatiana rents a small one-bedroom house with a small kitchen, where she lives with her adult children and one little girl. Her eldest son, now 25, suffered a mental breakdown in his teenage years. He stays at home all the time, unable to study or work. Tatiana has spent significant amounts of money seeking treatment for him, but so far without success. She is calling for help.