My name is Faraja Bulambo Alicienne. Originally from the Democratic Republic of Congo, I am now a young refugee living in Uganda with my family. Today, I want to share my transformative journey influenced by a remarkable organization called Davision, which operates within the Kyaka II refugee camp in Uganda.
Davision is a non-profit organization dedicated to combating violence against young girls and mothers. More importantly, it empowers vulnerable women by providing them with the skills and confidence to become independent.
The organization offers training in various professions such as tailoring, weaving, bag making, and liquid soap production. It also focuses on adult literacy, self-esteem enhancement, and public speaking, particularly for young girls who have dropped out of school and teenage mothers.
Before I encountered Davision, I arrived in Uganda filled with hope, believing that life here would be an improvement over the hardships I faced in Congo. However, reality quickly set in. My parents, burdened by health issues and unemployment, struggled to provide for me and my six siblings. My mother battled heart disease while my father suffered from hypertension. With no access to education and our family’s future uncertain, I found myself sinking into depression, overwhelmed by hopelessness.
The turning point came when I learned about Davision. The organization was conducting outreach in our community, and I decided to enroll in their six-month training program. This decision marked the beginning of a new chapter in my life. Upon completing the program, I not only received a certificate in tailoring but also secured a job as a secretary within the organization.
My experience at Davision has been nothing short of transformative. The organization not only educates but truly uplifts young people in our community. I am a testament to the profound impact of their work. Thanks to the skills and confidence I gained through Davision, I have become independent, resilient, and hopeful. My role allows me to support my family financially and serve as a beacon of encouragement for others facing similar challenges.
I am deeply grateful to Faridah Luanda, the visionary founder of Davision. Her foresight in establishing this organization has not only helped end violence against women and girls but has also propelled many of us toward a brighter, more empowered future.
In sharing my story, I hope to inspire others who may find themselves in circumstances similar to mine. There is hope, and there are avenues for change and empowerment. Thanks to the support and opportunities provided by organizations like Davision, lives can be transformed, even in the most challenging conditions.
Thank you, Davision, and long live Faridah Luanda, for your unwavering commitment to improving the lives of young refugee girls and women. Your work continues to light a path of hope and independence for many, including myself.
Faraja Bulambo Alicienne
