Salome’s journey is one of incredible bravery, resilience, and determination. At just 14 years old, she was confronted with a life-altering truth—her family had secretly arranged for her to undergo Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) in preparation for an arranged marriage.
It began innocently enough, with Salome fetching water from the river. A friend confided that the old man visiting her family’s hut was discussing the transportation of cows, the agreed dowry for her marriage. Doubting the story, Salome crept back to the hut that evening and overheard the devastating confirmation of her fate.
Faced with the terrifying reality, Salome made the courageous decision to run away. With no experience of the world beyond her small village, she ventured into the unknown, leaving behind everything she had ever known. She traveled from village to village for three long months, seeking safety and a chance to escape the life that awaited her.
Eventually, Salome was found and brought to a refuge—a place that would become her sanctuary. However, when attempts were made to reunite her with her parents, they rejected her, claiming she had brought shame upon the family. Their words left a deep scar, but Salome’s determination to build a brighter future remained unshaken.
For the past three years, the refuge has been Salome’s home. Here, she has found support, care, and the opportunity to continue her education. Now in further education, Salome dreams of a future where she can support herself and inspire other girls to stand against harmful practices like FGM.
Salome’s story is just one of many. She is one of three girls who fled their homes to escape FGM and forced marriage, finding safety and hope through the refuge. Our dream is to provide these girls with sponsorship opportunities to pursue further education or training, such as nursing school, empowering them to create independent and fulfilling lives.
With your support, we can help girls like Salome continue their education and rewrite their stories. Together, we can stand against harmful traditions and provide young women with the tools they need to thrive.
#Salome #3Girls #Runaway #EndFGM #EmpoweringWomen #OneWomanAtATime
