Hayat

For years, Hayat (pictured above) struggled with the effects of bullying and was unable to attend school. Concerns about managing her periods with limited resources also added to her worries. Now 14, she is finding new opportunities and hope through a Toybox-supported education project in Addis Ababa.

left behind by bullying

Life has not been easy for Hayat. Her mother died when she was born, and her father raised her alone in rural southern Ethiopia. When Hayat was nine, her father made the difficult decision to send her to Addis Ababa to live with his brother, hoping she would have access to better opportunities.

Starting school in the city should have been an exciting new chapter, but Hayat struggled to settle in. She was repeatedly bullied by other children because of her appearance. The experience had a deep impact on her confidence and wellbeing. After a short while, she stopped attending school.

Over the next four years, Hayat remained out of education. During this time, her uncle, who had been caring for her, passed away. Despite facing financial challenges of her own, his wife, Alemtsehay, continued to care for Hayat and encouraged her to return to school, but the effects of the bullying made this difficult.

To support the family, Alemtsehay, Hayat's caregiver, began selling injera (a traditional Ethiopian flatbread) on the streets of Addis Ababa. As she was not at school, Hayat often spent long days helping alongside her, navigating crowded market areas and busy streets.

A place to belong

Things began to look up after Alemtsehay heard about the education project, run by local partner CHADET, and decided to bring Hayat along for a visit.

Reflecting on her early days at the project, a member of the CHADET team shares; "When Hayat came to the centre, she would usually sit alone and had poor communication with her peers and staff. She appeared scared to engage in any activity in the informal education centre."

Soon after joining the project, Hayat began receiving support with her education, counselling and guidance, as well as health assessments and regular meals. Gradually, she started taking part in activities, forming friendships and building positive relationships with other children and staff.

Pictured below: Hayat and her peers at the informal learning centre during a special movie session.

learning to believe in herself

Over time, Hayat began to grow in confidence and discover new interests.

She shares, "Through the project I have learned how important it is to support others and communicate. I most enjoy drawing class, helping around the kitchen and playing. In the future I am looking forward to being educated and supporting my family."

dignity and confidence

Alongside support for her education and wellbeing, Hayat has received guidance and support on managing her periods safely and together with her peers, received a 'dignity pack' containing essential items, including soap, underwear and reusable sanitary pads, helping her feel more prepared and each month.

Pictured below: At the project Hayat attends, participants learn about menstrual hygeine and receive a dignity pack.

Hayat reflects;

"At the project I have learned how to use reusable sanitary pads for a longer time and have a good understanding of menstrual hygiene. I don't feel anxious or ashamed anymore. If I were the Prime Minister, I would distribute sanitary materials freely for girls in schools and the community."

Today, Hayat has the knowledge, resources and support she needs to manage her periods with confidence. Alongside re-engaging with her education, she is beginning to look ahead to the future she wants for herself. She concludes;

"When I grow up I dream of becoming a doctor."

Pictured below: Hayat with a dignity pack provided by the project.