Sudan is among the poorest and least developed countries. Around a third of the population lives on less than one dollar per day, and not a few children suffer illiteracy.*12 There are especially high illiteracy rates among young girls in marginalized areas and conflict zones. Many migrant families from these areas move to the capital city to work marginal jobs that barely provide a living. And even if they raise
enough money for school, parents prefer to send boys over girls. I have seen situations where girls are denied the right to an education just because of their economic status.
But our capabilities differ depending on our experiences and surroundings. So, if girls are provided suitable opportunities, education, and support, they will begin to discover their true potential, overcoming illiteracy and poverty. I became a social worker to represent girls’ rights to an education.
I am one of the girls who was blessed with new opportunities and social networks due to a change in my environment. I have been volunteering for different NGOs to address issues of education inequality in Sudan and global communities, such as the Women Deliver program and World Literacy Foundation. Meeting people with similar experiences working on educational equality has taught me so much about speaking out on issues, starting social projects, and understanding how to be a leader.
Based on my experiences, I tell the girls I mentor how a change of environment can positively impact their self-image and skills. Now, I am currently at Strategy 4you, an initiative I founded that’s focused on female empowerment through providing education and capacity building programs for people from war zones in Sudan. We also aim to spread awareness about the SDGs to help young people grow informed and participate in their implementation.
Education leads to the possibility of better income and health, and can also be a tool that builds inclusive and accepting communities as well as more peaceful and democratic nations. The best environment is one where girls can enjoy their well-being while pursuing education and development opportunities. I dream that Sudan will become a better country this way.
And to all the girls who are reading this: never doubt that you are valuable, powerful, and deserving of every opportunity in the world to pursue and achieve your own dreams. This is our undeniable truth!