Hazel

Hazel is a mother who travelled to Jordan in September 2023 in search of work and a more secure future. What began with hope quickly became an experience of exploitation and abuse. After being subjected to sexual exploitation and unpaid labour, Hazel eventually escaped.

Hazel returned to Uganda in December 2023. After a year of rehabilitation and skills training with a partner organisation, she joined Omugaso International Sanctuary in March 2025 to continue her journey of healing, learning and rebuilding her life.

When Hazel arrived, she was extremely reserved and struggled with low self-esteem. She could barely communicate in English and found it difficult to participate in activities. She also struggled to process her emotions, make decisions confidently and manage her finances. Ongoing health concerns and worries about her son added further pressure.

Her progress since then has been steady and meaningful.

Academically, Hazel progressed from Grade 1 in English and Grade 2 in Mathematics to Level 2 in her early 2026 assessment. More importantly, she has begun to find confidence in her voice.

Once too shy to speak English, Hazel now actively communicates and participates. In a significant milestone, she took on the role of news anchor for three consecutive months - April, May and June 2026. For someone who once struggled to express herself, standing before others and using her voice represents a remarkable step forward.

Her confidence in making decisions is growing too. Although she continues to navigate important decisions concerning her son and her future, she is becoming more willing to consider her options, seek guidance and make choices for herself.

Her growing sense of community is equally encouraging. Her growing heart to serve is evident in the way she cared for a fellow participant who became seriously ill, supporting her through her recovery.

Hazel is still on her journey. She continues to work on consistency, discipline and following through on her goals. But her progress reminds us that transformation does not always happen all at once.

Sometimes, it begins with something as simple - and as powerful - as finding the courage to speak.

Today, Hazel is learning, participating, making decisions, supporting others and using a voice that was once difficult for her to find. Her story is still being written, and with continued support, she has the opportunity to keep building the confidence, skills and independence needed for the future she hopes to create.