In the war-torn nation of Somalia, countless women and girls bear the tragic burden of having survived conflict-related sexual violence. These Survivors often face immense difficulties in rebuilding their lives and regaining a sense of autonomy and independence. However, in the darkness, one story shines with a light of hope: Seynab’s story.

Seynab (who uses a pseudonym) is a courageous person who suffered the trauma of sexual violence as a result of conflict. She is also a devoted mother to her children. Seynab was forced to flee Qoryooley after the devastating loss of her husband, who was the sole provider for her family. On her journey to Mogadishu, Seynab encountered an armed group who subjected her to further sexual violence, causing her to lose all hope for herself and her two children. Settled in the Kahda IDP camp, Seynab found herself in a state of despair, with no source of income and no optimism for the future.

The turning point in Seynab’s life came when she was given the opportunity to undergo capacity-building and basic skills training, including vocational skills, by the Somali Women and Child Care Association (SWCCA), supported by Stand Speak Rise Up! The training provided her with the tools and knowledge she needed to rebuild her life, and gave her renewed hope and determination.

Seynab’s journey to empowerment didn’t stop with training. With the support of SWCCA and SSRU, she also received a start-up kit that enabled her to set up her own business. Thanks to her determination and unwavering motivation, Seynab quickly transformed her small business into a thriving enterprise. Thanks to her hard work and dedication, she has not only achieved financial stability, but has also gained new self-confidence.

However, Seynab’s success has not made her forget her roots. On the contrary, it has fueled her desire to give back to her community and support others who have experienced similar hardships. Aware of the importance of raising awareness of sexual violence against women, Seynab has become an activist, devoting her time and efforts to defending and supporting Survivors in her community.

Seynab’s impact extends far beyond her own business. As a respected member of the GBV protection committee in her IDP camp, she is an active participant in the decision-making processes of her community in Kahda, in the district of the Banadir region. Seynab’s voice, once silenced by violence, is now heard and valued. Her powerful advocacy has led to significant improvements in the protection and support systems for Survivors of sexual and gender-based violence in her community.

Seynab’s journey is a powerful testimony to the transformative power of empowerment and support. Her story resonates not only with Survivors of sexual violence, but with all those who have faced adversity.

Thanks to her determination, resilience and unshakeable will to change, Seynab not only took control of her life, but also became a source of hope and inspiration for others.

The Somali Women and Child Care Association, in partnership with Stand Speak Rise Up! has been instrumental in the transformation of Seynab and hundreds of other women who have been victims of sexual violence. They are now able to rebuild their lives and start their own businesses, as well as becoming respected decision-makers and influential voices in their communities.

Seynab’s story reminds us of the resilience and potential of every Survivor, and underlines the importance of holistic support.