From Chiwariro Village to a FLAC Fellowship: My Journey

Growing up was far from easy. My mother lived in town, and I often felt abandoned. My grandmother was strict, punishing me for small things, and my grandfather treated me as if I were a problem because of the circumstances of my birth. I struggled with feelings of anger and inadequacy and often wondered if I would ever belong.

A Childhood Marked by Loss and Hardship

When I was 11, my mother passed away from HIV/AIDS. I was too young to understand, but the loss affected me deeply, and my school grades began to suffer. My grandmother tried to protect me, but soon I was sent to live with my mother’s sister.

What followed was a year of pain and neglect. I was treated poorly, forced to live in an empty, broken toilet, survive on forest fruits, and endure daily abuse. I felt useless, unwanted, and illegitimate. I wanted to go to school, but survival became my priority.

Returning to my grandmother’s home felt like coming back to life. My body, my health, and my confidence began to recover. Despite this, I faced further challenges: herding cattle, lack of schooling options, and the constant struggle to advocate for myself in a community that didn’t always protect me.

Finding My Strength

At 18, I decided I could no longer stay in the village. I sought work in town as a house girl. Life was grueling: long hours, minimal rest, and dangerous situations. Despite these hardships, I persevered. I worked multiple jobs, pursued a Nurse Aide course while walking long distances to evening classes, and learned to navigate life independently.

Through every challenge from poverty to abuse and exhaustion, I discovered resilience I didn’t know I had. I learned the importance of self-advocacy, perseverance, and determination.

A New Beginning with FLAC

In August 2023, on my birthday, a relative encouraged me to apply for the FLAC Fellowship. At first, I doubted myself the idea of traveling to South Africa, speaking in English, and joining a program I knew little about felt terrifying.

The first sessions were intimidating, and I considered quitting. But through patience, support, and guidance from Soul City, I began to grow in confidence. The fellowship taught me about healing trauma, feminist leadership, advocacy, and using my voice for change.

What I’ve Learned as a FLAC Fellow

Being a FLAC Fellow has transformed how I see myself and my role in society:

• I have learned to advocate confidently for young women and girls in my community.
• I have learned to forgive and move forward, letting go of past trauma.
• I now have a clear vision for my future, focused on bringing positive change wherever I go.

I see the struggles of young people in my community those who could not finish school, were forced into early marriage, or lacked support. I now know I want to be a voice for change, to stand with them, and to ensure their stories are heard.

A Life Transformed

From a childhood of hardship in Chiwariro village to standing confidently as a FLAC Fellow, my journey has been difficult, painful, and yet incredibly rewarding. The fellowship has given me hope, confidence, and purpose. I am grateful for this opportunity and committed to using it to bring change, empower young women, and inspire others to rise above their circumstances.

By Nyasha Tarisayi – FLAC Fellow - Zimbabwe