By Madeline Balser | Development Manager
Esther, 22, is the eldest of seven siblings. She had a happy life in the DRC with her farming parents and attended school up to Grade 6. However, when war erupted, she was forced to flee and became separated from her family. In 2016, she arrived alone and unaccompanied in Kenya, and while seeking safety and shelter, she became pregnant.
Scared and unsure of her next steps, Esther reached out to friends who recommended her to RefuSHE. Our Case Management team made home visits to evaluate her situation, and she joined RefuSHE’s Safe House thereafter. During her stay, Esther received prenatal and medical care, counseling, and started attending life skills classes.
After giving birth to her daughter, RefuSHE ensured that all her baby's needs, from diapers to food and safety, were met. After several months at the Safe House, taking care of her baby and her own health, Esther joined RefuSHE's Girls Empowerment Program (GEP). She started with basic education and successfully completed her Kenya Certificate of Primary Education (K.C.P.E). During her studies, her daughter was cared for at the onsite daycare.
After completing primary education, Esther joined Grade Three tailoring for vocational training under the National Industrial Training Authority (NITA). Currently in Grade II, Esther is excited about joining RefuSHE's Artisan Collective program next year to build her skills in tailoring. One day, Esther aspires to become a renowned fashion designer.
Looking back, Esther realizes that RefuSHE has put her on the road to self-sufficiency. As a mother to her 6-year-old daughter and 4-year-old son, she now has access to education. Additionally, Esther is learning skills that will enable her to start her own business and become financially independent.
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