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 stay unnoticed.”
Everything began to change when Mary joined CWIDI’s Girl-Led Safe Space and Support Group. During one session, she received a dignity kit filled with hygiene essentials — soap, pads, deodorant, and perfume. Though simple, it made her feel seen. “It felt like the hygiene kit was specially packed for me,” she said with a smile.
Through lessons on personal hygiene and self-care, Mary discovered that cleanliness is an act of self-respect, not vanity. “Now, I feel more mature, comfortable, and confident in my body,” she said proudly. The transformation was more than physical — it was emotional. For the first time, Mary stood tall, spoke up, and began to see herself as worthy of attention and respect.
Her story reflects how empowerment can start with the simplest act of care — restoring dignity and self-belief to girls who once felt invisible.
