The stories

The story of Blandina .

Building a future

Blandina is the shining example of what we can do for the children of Kenya. A resilient girl, she arrived at Kenya Child Care’s rescue center heavily pregnant when she was 15 years old. She was abused by her stepbrother and became pregnant as a result. During her stay, she gave birth to her son Joel. In her maternity, she also had to testify against her stepbrother. Unfortunately, she could not expect support from her family. Her mother is the only one who has continued to support her from the sidelines.

Building a future
Despite all these setbacks, Blandina was determined that she wanted to take care of her son herself. She is doing everything she can to build a loving and stable future for her and Joel. Through a scholarship, she was fortunately able to attend school. Joel was cared for in a foster home during Blandina’s college years. She visits her son on a frequent basis and thus remains involved in his upbringing and development.

Two dreams

She wanted to finish school and very much wants to become a teacher. In addition, she wants to help and assist girls who have experienced similar situations to her own. And her dreams are coming true! At the end of December 2022, Blandina graduated from high school.

While at school, she was already coaching her fellow students by hearing their stories and motivating them not to throw in the towel. When we asked her if she wanted to work for Rise Up Now she said a resounding yes!

As of May 1, 2023, Blandina is employed by Rise Up Now. This gives her the opportunity to stand on her own two feet and so she can care for her son herself. For her and for us, this completes the circle beautifully.

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