Evelyne

Evelyne’s Story

The world crumbled around Evelyne the day her mother died. At age 13, the woman who had been her anchor was gone from child-birth complications soon after delivering twin boys.

Their vibrant family, once filled with noise and laughter was reduced to muted tones of grief and uncertainty. Her father, a shadow of his former self, was consumed by illness, his body betraying him in ways that saw the family crumble in debt and unpaid hospital bills. Evelyne, the second-born, became the de facto leader in the family, a role forced on her before she was ready. The weight of responsibility was immense.

Life in Dandora slum, with its harsh realities and unforgiving environment, became even more challenging. Her elder sister, who had earlier on dropped out of school to support the family, was now burdened with caring for the twins. The small, two-roomed house, once a shelter, now felt like a prison. The stench of poverty was as palpable as the air they breathed across the neighborhood.

Determined to break free, Evelyne clung to her education. It was her escape, her path to a brighter future. Each day was a battle, a constant struggle against hunger, despair and the weight of expectations. But in the depths of her soul, she refused to be defeated.

School became a sanctuary for Evelyne, a place where she could temporarily escape the harsh realities of home. Yet, even within its walls, challenges persisted. Starvation tested her endurance. School supplies were a luxury, and the fear of being sent home for unpaid fees was inevitable.

Evelyne immersed herself in worlds far removed from the squalor of Dandora. Her intelligence and determination were evident to her teachers, who recognized her potential. Yet, the weight of her family's circumstances often threatened to overwhelm her. The thought of her siblings following in her footsteps and being free from hardship inspired her.

As she matured, Evelyne began to understand the systemic issues that plagued her community. The lack of access to clean water, the prevalence of disease, and the limited opportunities for young people were problems she experienced firsthand. A desire to be an agent of change began to take root. She saw herself as a problem-solver, a builder of bridges, and a champion for the marginalized.

Water, a scarce resource in Dandora, became a particular focus for Evelyne. The challenges faced by her community, from waterborne diseases to the daily struggles of fetching water, inspired her to pursue a degree in Water Engineering. She envisioned a future where clean water was accessible to all, where sanitation was a priority, and where the environment was protected.

The road ahead may be challenging, but Evelyne is ready. She is not just a survivor; she is a conqueror.