Yvonne’s journey has been marked by immense challenges, yet it offers lessons in resilience and the remarkable effect of support. Born into a dysfunctional family, Yvonne faced a series of hardships from a young age. The traumatic experiences she endured, including molestation and early motherhood at the tender age of 14, only intensified the difficulties she faced in her 31 years of life. Amidst the adversity, Yvonne sought refuge in her mother, only to be rejected and left homeless due to societal judgment and pressure from her stepfather, who refused to acknowledge responsibility for two children – Yvonne and her unborn child. Forced into the harsh reality of the streets, she turned to survival sex work to fend for herself and her newborn child.
The turning point in Yvonne’s life came with the intervention of Hagari Rwanda when her daughter Charlotte was three years old. The organization provided crucial support by covering educational expenses and offering assistance as needed. However, the absence of a solid supportive program made Yvonne vulnerable to relapses into her previous lifestyle, including leasing a brothel and running an unsuccessful bar business in Busanza, Kigali, Rwanda. Despite these setbacks, Hagari Rwanda remained steadfast in its support, recognizing the potential for positive change in Yvonne’s life. The organization’s Family Development Plan, coupled with essential training, has been instrumental in helping Yvonne rebuild her shattered life and family.
Even as challenges continue to knock at the door, Yvonne has made significant strides with the guidance of her dedicated caseworker, Ms. Claudine, and the consistent support from Hagari Rwanda. Through regular home visits and emotional support, Claudine has played a pivotal role in helping Yvonne mend relationships, particularly with her daughter Charlotte, who initially struggled and resented her mother’s former reckless lifestyle choices.
With an initial start-up capital of 20,000 Rwf ($17), Yvonne ventured into a vending business, selling food on the street, steering her away from her previous life on the streets and offering a source of daily income. Embracing Jesus as her personal Lord and Savior through Hagari Rwanda discipleship sessions, Yvonne has found solace in her faith, which has brought hope and stability to her life. Actively participating in her church, she has become a regular member, further contributing to her personal growth. To supplement her income, Yvonne engages in casual labor, such as offering laundry services, showcasing her determination to meet her needs independently.
Yvonne’s life is gradually changing, exemplifying the resilience of the human spirit and the power of support in overcoming even the most challenging of circumstances.
