My Story

My name is Esther Josephine Dumbuya, and I am from Sierra Leone. I became pregnant at the age of fourteen. It was a deeply traumatizing experience for both me and my parents. The stigmatization I faced from my church, community, and school was overwhelming — people judged and rejected me when I needed support the most.

Despite all the challenges, I refused to give up. I returned to school and sat for my Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE), which I passed with flying colours. It wasn’t easy, but my determination kept me going.

When I entered senior secondary school, the stigma and discrimination continued from friends, teachers, and even people I thought would understand. Still, I held on to my dream. I worked hard and successfully passed the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE).

Today, I am proud to say that I am a final-year Political Science student at the University of Sierra Leone, Fourah Bay College. My journey has not been easy, but it has taught me the power of resilience, courage, and faith. I want my story to inspire other young girls facing similar challenges — to know that their past does not define their future.