From Setback to Strength: Eunice Lazaro's Journey of Resilience and Redemption.
My name is Eunice Lazaro, I am 19 years old, a form six student at Misungwi Secondary School in Mwanza. I joined the Fema Club in Form One at Shamaliwa Secondary School, initially as a member but was not active.
In Form Three, due to Covid-19, all schools closed. During this time, I engaged in risky behaviour like having unsafe sex instead of focusing on my studies.
In 2021, while in Form Four, I found out I was pregnant after having unsafe sex with my boyfriend.
Despite considering an abortion, my boyfriend convinced me otherwise, emphasising our responsibility in the situation. As I was not registered for the national exams, I kept the pregnancy from my mother and school until the teachers discovered it and prevented me from sitting the Form Four national exams.
My mother advocated for me to be allowed to register for the national exams as it was only a few weeks to the examination day. She encouraged me to study hard for the exams and supported me to return to school for the exams. I performed extremely well, then I went into labour and gave birth prematurely.
Subsequently, I was selected to join Misungwi Secondary School, where I re-joined the Fema Club but this time as an active member. Through the advice and mentorship received, I gained confidence, strength, and motivation to continue my education and strive for success.
Reflecting on my experience, I advise adolescents to avoid early relationships due to the potential consequences, as I learned the hard way through my pregnancy. I regret engaging in a relationship prematurely, as it has impacted my academic journey and relationships at school.
I acknowledge the sacrifices and challenges of balancing motherhood and education, wishing I had focused solely on my studies at my age.
Despite the obstacles faced, being part of the Fema Club has provided me with valuable lessons on self-belief, resilience, and the importance of avoiding risky behaviours as an adolescent. I have learned to stay focused, positive, and determined to overcome challenges and make a positive impact on my future.
“I emphasise the importance of learning from my mistakes and the role of Fema Clubs in empowering young girls to make informed decisions and strive for a better future. I am grateful for the support and guidance received, which have helped me navigate through difficult circumstances and continue to pursue my academic goals.”