How Facilitating Engagements With Adolescent Girls and Young Women Positively Impacted Bongimpilo's Own Life

Bongimpilo, of Mantambe Area Programme, has been part of the “Halting The Spread Of HIV Amongst The Swazi Society” Project, which aims to transform the lives of young girls and women in underprivileged communities,since 2022.

As a Youth Facilitator, responsible for facilitating engagements with the Adolescent Girls and Young Women (AGYW) participating in the project, she began to realise the profound impact it could have on these individuals, providing them with opportunities and support they desperately needed.

However, Bongimpilo’s journey was not just about changing the lives of others; it was also a path of self-discovery and healing. Through her involvement in the project, she was confronted with her own past experiences, including struggles with mental health and wellbeing. At first, the realisation was daunting, stirring up emotions she had long buried.

As Bongimpilo continued to work on the project, she found solace in knowing that she wasn't alone in her journey. She connected with other team members who shared similar experiences, forming a support network that helped her navigate her own challenges. Together, they shared stories, offered encouragement, and provided a safe space for vulnerability.

Through this process, Bongimpilo began to confront her past with courage and resilience.  Through the project, she received professional help to address her mental health concerns, learning healthy coping mechanisms along the way. As she continued on this self-improvement process, she found that her newfound strength and clarity positively impacted her work on the project.

The Stepping Stones sessions, a training programme on gender, transactional sex, HIV, communication and relationship skills, she developed a better understanding of what she faced. Through working with the AGYW in these sessions, she renewed her sense of purpose and determination.

As if that was not enough, through the Savings and Lending Group sessions, also conducted by the project to educate AGYWs about the importance of financial independence, she discovered she could generate income through small businesses, thanks to the project’s classes. She sells atchar and chillies to locals in the community and her colleagues.

This newfound business allows her to cover her son's preschool fees, empowering her with financial independence and stability.

“The project for young girls taught me so much," she said.

"Now, I can pay my son's preschool fees with the small business I've started. It's been life-changing."

As the project progresses, Bongimpilo's transformation is evident to those around her. She gleams of confidence and resilience, inspiring others with her passion and dedication. Her journey serves as a powerful reminder that change begins from within, and that by confronting our own demons, we can create meaningful impact in the world around us.

In the end, her story is not just one of personal growth, but of collective empowerment. Through her work on the project, she not only changed the lives of young girls and women, but also became a beacon of hope for anyone facing their own struggles.