Teri (not her real name), a Senior Four candidate at a secondary school in Kanungu District, carries a story of unimaginable courage and resilience.
Her life took an unexpected and traumatic turn during her Primary Seven vacation. A familiar man in her neighborhood, who owned an electronics shop, lured her to his home located behind the shop. Under false pretenses and manipulation, he assaulted her, leaving her pregnant. Overwhelmed by fear and the stigma attached to such incidents, Teri kept the ordeal to herself.
When she joined secondary school in Senior One, the burden became too heavy to bear. She confided in the school matron, who advised her to seek medical help. The results confirmed her pregnancy. Efforts to apprehend the perpetrator were unsuccessful as he fled the community. Justice remains elusive, but Teri’s spirit remains unbroken.
In her darkest moments, Teri found a lifeline through Nyaka’s Kanungu Healing Center. With compassionate care from counselors and medical staff, she received counseling, medication, and prenatal support. Maureen, the Case Manager was a key figure in her recovery, provided unwavering support that empowered Teri to navigate her trauma.
Despite giving birth during her second term in Senior One, Teri made the courageous decision to return to school. Surrounded by a strong support system of her mother, father, and Nyaka’s Healing Center, she persevered. Three years later, she is now in her final year of the first Phase of High School, determined to complete her education and build a brighter future for herself and her child.
Reflecting on her journey, Teri says, “It wasn’t easy, but I knew I had to keep going. My child deserves a better future, and I want to be a mother she can be proud of. Nyaka’s support gave me hope when I had none.”
She also advises young girls to be cautious of men who lure them with gifts and encourages them to stand firm in protecting their dignity.
Today, her child is three years old, and Teri continues to pursue her dreams, guided by faith, hope, and her mother’s steadfast encouragement.
Teri’s story is a powerful reminder of why Nyaka’s work matters. It is through collective compassion and support that young survivors can find healing and hope.
Join us in creating safe spaces for girls like Teri. Together, we can empower them to reclaim their future.
