A Journey from invisibility...

Growing up, books were my refuge. I was a very shy child whose social skills were dismal. I delved into a world of fantasy, where of course, I was loved by everyone and everything ended happily ever after. I felt safe in my small space wary of venturing out, in case I got hurt or inadvertently cause harm to someone else.

I was content to stay in the background. This meant that are often played down my opinions and needs so that it did not offend or hurt anyone else. On the other hand, I hid my anger and disapproval when I was offended. This was no way to live surely.

Fortunately, I grew up and while life hasn’t always been easy or straightforward, I have learnt that what doesn’t kill you only makes you stronger. Confidence gained has made it possible from me speak out against injustice and speak up about issues that interest or affect me. Instead of just reading about life, I am now writing about life. In my work at Alliances for Africa, I have been drawn to helping people whom society abhors or ignores at best. As a woman, modesty is considered a great virtue. However it is in the silence of our homes that sometimes, the greatest injustice is done. I speak out against domestic violence, discrimination against women and speak up for justice and gender equality.

When you are invisible, you become just a number – a statistic. When you are visible you are a reference point and can challenge discriminatory practices. The opportunity to write and be more visible came when I received an email about the VOF (Voice of Our Future). I was not aware of the PulseWire online community until some weeks ago, when I received the email. I decided it was now or never to begin to document my experiences and stories with the aim of tackling gender discrimination and improving gender justice.

My personal vision is to be the best person that I can be with no apologies and no regrets. By participating in the VOF, I hope to improve on how I express myself in writing. As well as enhance in a safe online community, the freedom to speak up for myself and the many women whose voices have been silenced or ignored.