Olivia’s earliest recollection of joining the institution was when her maternal aunt came to pick her and her siblings up from their home to find support. She was 7 years old at the time and stayed in the institution for 15 years before being reintegrated into the community to live independently
At the institution, she experienced tribalism, injustices, and discrimination amongst her peers. As a young girl, she remembers having to trek lengthy distances to school barefoot, passing through unsafe slums along the way, making her question if she was really being provided with the necessary help. Olivia would often get together with her schoolmates to discuss her experiences, struggles, and worries.
Olivia, having reached adulthood while in the institution, felt apprehensive about starting a life on her own. She had never lived alone before, and the prospect of it was daunting. “I didn’t know how to relate with people, I didn’t know prices of essentials until now there are things I have failed to buy for myself because we were used to getting stuff we needed,” Olivia said.
Olivia was concerned about obtaining basic necessities and sustaining herself, as she had no job or source of income.
“We were encouraged by Child’s i Foundation social workers that we were not alone, I knew I had a fall back place in case I needed guidance. People’s stories inspired me and I regained my hope to do more and better,” Olivia said.
Olivia owes her strength and courage to the backing of her friends and family. During her university days, she was trained in a bakery owned by a fellow youth, Charles, who had also grown up at the same institution. Upon graduating, she partnered with him and continued to progress.
At 26 years old, Olivia has achieved her dream of becoming a baker, having studied hotel and institutional catering. Together with her colleague Charles, she now co-owns a bakery located in a university-filled neighborhood, serving the students as their main customers. To further support their business, Olivia and Charles have employed 5 support staff, as well as trained 30 youths from the university in the art of baking.
Evidence of Olivia’s progress is unmistakable. She has developed the skills to manage and lead others, is savvy with finances, and continues to seek out opportunities to learn. In her own words, she believes that leaving the institution was a good decision as it has enabled her to gain knowledge that she would not have acquired otherwise.
“Out of all these experiences I have learnt to live in a normal environment,” Olivia said.
