A Common Thread of Transformation Though each of these girls’ journeys is unique, their stories share a common thread — empowerment. From learning to say no, to rediscovering confidence, to finding one’s voice and redefining strength, these experiences highlight how CWIDI’s programs are shaping a generation of girls who refuse to be defined by displacement....
A Journey of Hope and Purpose – Blessing’s Dream to Become a Nurse When 15-year-old Blessing arrived at Ichwa Camp, she saw firsthand how limited access to healthcare affected displaced families. The nurses who cared for the sick inspired her deeply. “That’s when I decided I wanted to become a nurse,” she said softly. “I...
Redefining Strength – Mary Gboko’s Journey from Fear to Empowerment When 18-year-old Mary Gboko fled her community during an attack, fear became her constant companion. “I used to wish I were a man,” she said, “so I could join the military and protect my people.” Determined to feel powerful again, she started acting tough and...
Finding Her Voice – Shom’s Transformation At Abagena Camp, 17-year-old Shom once hid at the back of gatherings, paralyzed by shyness. When CWIDI facilitators invited her to a role play during training, she tried to avoid it — until her peers started clapping and cheering her on. “It felt like a veil was lifted from...
From Self-Consciousness to Confidence – Mary’s Story For Mary, 16, from the International Market IDP Camp, low self-esteem once defined her daily life. She avoided crowds, worried constantly about her appearance, and was terrified of being noticed. “My heart always raced whenever I was asked to speak in public,” she admitted. “I just wanted to...
Learning to Set Boundaries and Stay Focused – Doose’s Journey At just 14 years old, Doose from Ichwa IDP Camp learned one of life’s most valuable lessons — the importance of boundaries and self-respect. When she first joined CWIDI’s girls’ empowerment training, she didn’t see anything wrong with spending a lot of time with boys....
Empowering Displaced Girls in Benue: Voices of Change and Resilience In the heart of Benue State, where thousands of families displaced by conflict struggle to rebuild their lives, young girls are discovering strength, hope, and purpose through empowerment and education. Amid the uncertainty of life in displacement camps, the Center for Women in Development and...
