My name is Elmer Dandawa, and this is my story. It is a true story about pain, courage, and how life can change when someone is given support, understanding, and hope.

I was married when I was only 17 years old. At that time, my world became very small. I was scared, confused, and unsure of what the future would look like. I felt as though my life had already been decided for me. I did not know if I would ever return to school, earn my own income, or live the life I once dreamed of. Many days were filled with silence and fear, and I carried a heavy feeling that I had lost control over my own life.

Everything began to change the day I heard about Rozaria Memorial Trust (RMT). I remember walking in feeling shy and nervous, unsure of what to expect. I was afraid of being judged. Instead, I was welcomed with kindness, respect, and patience. The staff listened to my story and treated me with dignity. For the first time in a long time, I felt seen and understood.

At Rozaria Memorial Trust through continued Nhanga sessions, I learned something very important: being married as a child is not the end of life. I was reminded that I still had value, strength, and the right to dream again. Slowly, through care and encouragement, I began to heal and believe in myself once more.

Through the training programmes at RMT, I gained practical skills that helped me rebuild my confidence and independence. I learned how to make hand-woven bags, produce liquid soap, and create reusable sanitary pads. These skills did more than help me earn an income. They restored my sense of purpose and showed me that I was capable of standing on my own feet. For the first time in years, I felt proud of myself.

With the support of RMT, I took a step I never imagined possible. I introduced the Nhanga Safe Space in Karumazondo and Wuyuwuyu in Murewa, creating spaces where girls and young women could gather, learn, and support one another. Before starting, I consulted local village heads in Kapita, Donzva, Nhende, and Nyamapfeni—who welcomed the initiative and gave their full support. I also worked with teachers and school heads at Karumazondo Primary and Secondary School and Wuyuwuyu Primary School, who believed in the importance of the work.

When the Nhangas officially opened, village heads and teachers attended. Their presence made the moment very meaningful. It showed that this work mattered, not only to me, but to the entire community. What began as my personal journey had grown into a shared vision of protecting and empowering girls.

I will never forget the first time I earned money from the bags I made. I cried tears of joy. It was not only about the income, but about dignity. I realised that I could support myself and contribute to my community. In that moment, I knew that my life had truly begun again.

Today, my journey continues. I now support other girls who have experienced abuse or were married at a young age. When I meet them, I see my own story reflected in theirs. I help connect them to Rozaria Memorial Trust Emergency Shelter, where they can find safety, care, and a chance to heal. I encourage them to believe that no  matter how painful their past has been, their future can still be filled with hope.

I am now a strong, skilled, and empowered woman. I stand not only for myself, but for other girls who are still finding their voices. My journey is living proof that with the right support, love, and community, a woman can rise again.

My story is a reminder that when a woman is empowered, families are strengthened, communities grow, and hope is restored