This story was documented and produced with financial support from UNHCR under the “Safe from the Start: Impactful GBV Interventions Pilots in Operations” project, implemented by SOFERES in Dzaleka Camp.
Nadia, a 28-year-old refugee from the Democratic Republic of Congo, had her childhood stolen from her. Forced into an early marriage at just 15 years old, she endured years of emotional and physical abuse at the hands of her much older husband. Her life was dictated by his rules—where she could go, who she could speak to, and even what she could wear. If she resisted, she faced brutal consequences. The fear and shame of her situation kept her silent for years.
“I thought marriage was supposed to be my protection, but it became my prison,” Nadia recalls. “I had nowhere to turn. I was isolated, afraid, and convinced that no one would believe me.”
A Ray of Hope: The Turning Point
Everything changed when she attended a SOFERES awareness session on Gender-Based Violence (GBV). For the first time, she learned about her rights, the cycle of abuse, and the support systems available to women like her. She listened as other survivors shared their testimonies, realizing she was not alone. Their courage ignited something within her—a desire to break free.
Encouraged by SOFERES staff, Nadia reached out for help. With support from Plan International Malawi, she was provided with emergency shelter, legal assistance, and counseling. For the first time in years, she felt safe.
Healing was not immediate. The trauma lingered, and rebuilding her life felt overwhelming. But with the support of Jesuit Refugee Services (JRS) and dedicated counselors, Nadia began to regain her confidence. She enrolled in empowerment workshops, learning skills that would allow her to be financially independent. Through these programs, she met other women who had survived similar experiences. Their collective strength and solidarity became a source of hope.
From Survivor to Advocate: Paying It Forward
Determined to prevent other women from enduring the same pain, Nadia chose to become a community mobilizer. Today, she volunteers with a Community-Based Organization (CBO), working closely with women in Dzaleka Refugee Camp. She raises awareness about GBV, educates women on their rights, and connects survivors to life-saving services, including shelters, legal aid, and psychosocial support.
Her transformation from victim to advocate has been profound. She is no longer silent—she is a voice for the countless women who still suffer in the shadows.
“Speaking out saved my life,” Nadia says. “Now, I make sure no woman feels alone in her fight for justice. Every time I help a woman find safety, I know I’m breaking the cycle of violence.”
A Movement for Change
Nadia’s story is a testament to the power of resilience, knowledge, and community support. Through the work of SOFERES, UNHCR, and its implementing partners, more women like her are finding the courage to leave abusive situations and reclaim their lives.
Her journey proves that survivors can become leaders. With every awareness session she leads, Nadia is not only transforming individual lives but also challenging the deep-rooted societal norms that enable GBV to persist. She is living proof that when survivors are empowered, they become the strongest advocates for change.
Together, we can end GBV. Nadia’s story is just the beginning.