International Women’s Day 2021
“As study after study has taught us, there is no tool for development more effective than the empowerment of women.” - Kofi Annan
We are so grateful to be surrounded by influential, inspiring women every day, and in partnership, that is amplified. We often state that we don’t do it alone, and we don’t! Through the generosity of our donors, and with the help of our partners, we can do more, together.
The collaboration between Jesuit Refugee Services (JRS) and Tutapona in Adjumani, Northern Uganda emphasizes the strength of the women we serve and work alongside.
This partnership focuses on supporting South Sudanese refugee children, using mental health support to improve school attendance and education outcomes.
Across the globe, women face increased violence, poverty, and unemployment. We are committed to working together to interrupt destructive cycles. And when we join forces with other organizations, more women can receive essential services that empower and equip them to become the leaders of tomorrow.
“The benefits of this partnership is that we can learn from one another and add value to each other’s strengths, which enriches the services we are providing to people in need,”
-Christina, JRS Uganda Deputy Country Director.
The pains of the past, when met with care during the present, equip and strengthen for the future.
We believe the best is yet to come for the girls we work with and we are excited and inspired by them as they overcome obstacles and grow into the women God has created them to be.
On International Women’s Day, here are a few windows into the work we do in Adjumani, proving that behind every strong woman is a story of trials that were overcome.
Anna’s Story:
“My Name is Anna*, I am 13 years old. I am in fourth grade at school, I really enjoy it! I enjoy learning how to write. I’ve been in Uganda for almost 6 years. I lived in South Sudan before, I remember the fighting, I remember having to drink sewer water, I remember the armed gunmen who would come and loot and kill. It was very scary. Our journey took six days, we saw many soldiers along the roadside with guns. I was so afraid.
When I arrived here I was relieved, but at night I couldn’t sleep - my mind was full of so many thoughts. Even during the day, I would just sit there, feeling miserable. BUT, God is good. My mother was told about Tutapona and the Heroes Journey. I’ve learned about the power of courage, and of hope. I learned about a man called Emmanuel, a man who learned to work hard. Emmanuel only has one leg, but he wanted to ride a bicycle. He would fall off, but then keep getting up. He trained very hard and in time he learned how to ride his bicycle. It taught me that learning is a gradual process, you learn every day and then you win. I feel like this is something I can do, and it has inspired me to study hard so that I can accomplish my dreams and support my family. When I grow up I want to be an accountant in a bank so that I can continue helping people.
This program is strengthening my brain. I think clearly and reason better. It makes me feel fresh again. I learned from the program that if I am angry or anxious, I can control those emotions and even use some of the tools to change that.
I feel like this is something I can do, and it has inspired me to study hard so that I can accomplish my dreams and support my family.
I learned the powers of a hero, to be thankful, to have faith and hope. Now, since being in the program I sleep better. Sometimes I still feel like I’m not ok, but I know I’m still getting better, and I have hope for my future that it will continue to get better.”
