Diana Overcomes Disability: A Remarkable Journey of Resilience and Triumph

Nestled amidst a lush cocoa block in Madang’s Usino District, a story of resilience, determination, and the sweet success of a single mother is unfolding.

Diana, a woman with 5 children, has transformed her cocoa block into a thriving venture and paved the way for her children's brighter future.

Diana's journey begins with her venture into the world of cocoa farming, fueled by World Vision's transformative project – the Usino Climate Smart and Inclusive Cocoa Project that imparts financial literacy and practical climate-smart farming skills to farmers like her.

With 5 children, four of them attending school, and one recently married – Diana's responsibilities are vast, but her cocoa block has become a beacon of hope.

The Savings for Transformation Group (S4T) initiative, a crucial component of the project, plays a pivotal role in Diana's life. It teaches farmers the art of financial management, empowering them to save for their children's education and unforeseen emergencies. With a strategic allocation of her earnings, Diana ensures her children's personal needs, clothing, and school fees are met.

Diana's cocoa farming journey isn't just about planting and harvesting; it's a testament to the power of acquiring knowledge. Training sessions on pruning cocoa plants and block management have equipped her with essential skills, enhancing the productivity of her cocoa block. While there are still skills she's mastering, the support from project staff and the Gigaso Cooperative society stands as a testament to the community's collaborative spirit.

All these are made possible with the much-appreciated funding support from the Australian NGO Cooperation Program (ANCP) and technical support from implementing partners from the Government of Papua New Guinea in the PNG Cocoa Board Authority, Department of Commerce, Trade and Industry and the Department of Agriculture and Livestock.

One significant stride in Diana's personal growth came through her participation in Disability Inclusion training. This empowering session, facilitated by project staff, has armed her with the knowledge to navigate challenges in her family life with newfound confidence.

Diana's eyes sparkle with pride as she shares her recent achievements. "Last week I sold some wet beans, and this week, I sold a bag of dry beans. The money earned will go towards my daughter's university fees, after setting aside some for my tithe," she says.

Diana's daughter, having completed Grade 12 at Brahman High School in 2022, pursued further education at Lae to upgrade her marks through FODE. Now, she's set to attend the University of Technology, a testament to the transformative power of Diana's cocoa block.

As a single mother, Diana acknowledges the challenges, but her cocoa block has become a lifeline.

"It is tough, but at least I have my cocoa block to help me. I’m very thankful that World Vision has brought this project to us, giving us skills and tools to improve our cocoa blocks," she reflects.

The project has not only imparted practical skills but has also inspired women, particularly widowed, single, and disabled mothers, instilling confidence in their ability to care for their children.

Diana's family is a unique blend of love and commitment. All of her children are not biologically hers – she adopted two, while the other four are her own from a previous marriage. A marriage that left her to face the challenges of single motherhood, abandoned by a husband who chose a different path.

Diana's resilience is evident in her dual source of income. In addition to cocoa farming, she sells peanuts to supplement her earnings, ensuring that she can save for the future and meet the immediate needs of her household.

Her cocoa block has not only become a source of income but a symbol of empowerment and hope for a better life.

Amid her lush cocoa block, Diana's story is a testament to the transformative impact of community projects, empowering individuals to overcome adversity.

As the sun sets over the cocoa-laden landscape, Diana's cocoa block stands tall, not just as a plantation of crops, but as a testament to the strength of a mother's love and the sweet taste of success born from resilience and community support.