Ms. Ajok Deng Chol is a women leader in Mayen Abun IDP camp. She has seen firsthand the challenges that women and girls face in her community.
Before Women for Change came to the camp, women and girls were often isolated and vulnerable to gender-based violence (GBV) and menstrual shame. They had no access to basic necessities like slippers, torches, menstrual towels, or clothes. This made it difficult for them to move around safely at night, and it also made them feel ashamed and isolated. The darkness at the camp made it difficult for us to move around safely at night, and the lack of menstrual towels also made us feel ashamed and isolated when menstruating," said the woman leader. "We were afraid to speak out about our needs, and we felt like we had nowhere to turn." She continued Women for Change has provided women and girls with the essential menstrual necessities they need to live safely and comfortably. They have also trained women and girls on GBV prevention and response. This has helped to reduce menstrual shame and the number of GBV cases in the community, and it has also given women and girls the confidence to speak out against violence. "Women for Change has given us a voice," said Ms. Ajok Deng Chol. "They have taught us that we are not alone and that we have the right to be safe and respected. We are grateful for their work, and we urge others to support them so that they can continue to help more people." In addition to providing essential necessities and training, Women for Change has also created a women and girls-friendly space (WGF) in the camp. This center is a safe space for women and girls to come and discuss their issues. They also received psychosocial support, learn new skills, and earn a living. The WGF has been a game-changer for women and girls in Mayen Abun IDP camp. They now have a safe space to go where they can feel supported and empowered. They are also able to learn new skills and earn a living, which has helped to improve their economic situation. "The WGF has given us hope," said Ms. Ajok Deng Chol. "It has shown us that we can overcome the challenges we face and that we can build a better future for ourselves and our children." Ms. Ajok Deng Chol is grateful for the work that Women for Change has done in her community. She believes that their work has made a real difference in the lives of women and girls. She urges others to support Women for Change so that they can continue to help more people.