Monica from Zambia
Monica is Seen and Protected
When Monica* arrived at the Kids Alive Centre for Justice in Zambia, she was 16 years old and carrying the weight of profound trauma. After experiencing abuse within her home, she was unable to remain with her immediate family and was moved between relatives’ houses, each situation marked by instability and risk. Her education was disrupted, and by the time she came into our care, she was no longer in school.
Yet even in the midst of hardship, Monica carried a quiet resilience.
Healing through care and support
From the beginning, she engaged wholeheartedly in therapy, showing up consistently and demonstrating a willingness to understand her experiences and learn healthy ways to process her pain. Through ongoing counselling and support, she began rebuilding a sense of safety and control in her life. She learned how to manage difficult emotions, identify trusted adults, and establish boundaries. Step by step, healing began to take root.
Faith also became an important part of her journey. Through daily devotions and time in God’s Word, Monica began to rediscover her identity, not defined by what had happened to her, but by who she is in Christ.
Over time, her confidence grew. She began leading devotions for younger girls in the home, something she once said she could never imagine herself doing. Today, she speaks of prayer with assurance and trusts that God hears her.
When Monica was ready, she returned to school. Despite the time she had missed, her determination was evident. By the end of her first term back, she ranked ninth out of 35 students in her class, a remarkable achievement that reflects both her strength and renewed hope for the future.
A Safe Path Forward
In partnership with social welfare, a safe and supportive family placement was identified with her aunt. As preparations for reunification took place, Monica confidently shared the coping strategies she would continue using to navigate challenges and protect her well-being.
On the day she left Kids Alive, she felt both sadness in saying goodbye to friends and excitement about returning to her family, where she was welcomed home with warmth.
With continued support from her family and Kids Alive, Monica is moving forward, continuing her education and stepping into the next chapter of her life with courage and confidence.
Reclaiming Her Future
Monica is not defined by her past trauma.
She is alive in Christ, seen, protected, and walking towards restoration.
Thank you for helping create a place where girls like Monica can heal, rise academically, and return home strengthened in faith and confidence.
*Name changed for protection
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