Voices of Resilience: Unforgettable Days in South Sudan
Step into the shoes of our incredible young women Scholars in South Sudan as they share their personal stories of an unforgettable day. From unfathomable heartbreak to profound joy, these authentic accounts offer a window into their lives and unwavering resilience. Join us on this powerful journey through their unforgettable days.
Note: These accounts were originally handwritten by high school Scholars in response to the essay prompt, “A day in your life you will never forget”. The narratives have been transcribed and slightly revised by our staff for enhanced readability and comprehension.
Author’s Privacy: Any identifying information has been removed to safeguard the sensitivity of their accounts.
The Day a Gang of Thieves Robbed Our Home
It was an ordinary evening at home, with everyone living in our compound present except a few of my family members and neighbors. Normally, our gate was always closed before dark—but that night, it was left wide open.
That was when a stranger slipped in. Some men were sitting outside when he arrived, and greeted him politely, unaware of the danger. Moments later, the stranger called out to his accomplices, and suddenly several men armed with guns, knives, and sticks stormed in.
My Struggle To Receive an Education
My father refused. He said, “I cannot take any of my children to school, because she will not bring me cows for dowry. If you want her to study, tell your parents to pay me my cows.”
The Day Armed Men Robbed Us at Gunpoint
The robbers ordered us to lie flat on the ground while they beat the two men traveling with us and the driver. We stayed frozen, praying they wouldn’t hurt us.
The Day The Big Snake Appeared In Our Compound At Night
The snake sprang forward, ready to strike. Acting quickly, we began throwing stones and hitting the snake with whatever we had.
The Day I Won My MBB Scholarship
I didn’t sleep that night for the first time in my life because I was so happy. I was restless to see my friend again to share the good news.
The Day My Mother Had Difficulties In Delivering Her Baby
I told him, “We are not ready to lose our dear, caring, and sweet mother. You better transfuse her with my blood since daddy will not help. Just save her life!”
The Day My Parents Were Sent Away From the Village
That was when people began searching for my brother and family, with the plan to kill us all.
The Day We Were Attacked by a Robber
Three of them were armed with guns, and four carried sticks.
The Day I was Separated from my Family
The robbers approached me, demanded I stop, and took everything from me, even the clothes I was wearing.
The Day They Conspired to Kill my Mother
Our stepmother prevented us from going to school. She has us stay home and care for her own children instead.
The Day I Received a Mercy Beyond Borders Scholarship
I was extremely happy, even beyond happiness. I went back home and announced the amazing message to my family. Indeed they were so happy and proud of me because they believed I could make it to the top.
The Day My Younger Brothers Were Wounded by a Bomb
The explosion made my family’s poverty worse. All the wealth was used for medical treatment. Because of that, we all had to drop out of school because we did not have money for school fees.
The Day My Mother Fell Seriously Unwell and I Received an MBB Scholarship
My heart was pierced by the sword of suffering. Her illness continued from bad to worse. I turned to my uncle for help,.