Testimonails
Transforming Minds; Renewing Hope
Hear from those whose lives have been transformed. Their stories are a testament to our mission and the difference we strive to make every day.
In September 2023, in Adamawa State, Nigeria, a resilient young girl named Saratu Anyana, aged 15 and the eldest of three siblings, faced a daunting challenge that would alter the course of her life. Her community, Mugaran in Demsa L.G.A, was severely affected by a devastating flood, displacing 4,170 individuals and leaving them struggling to rebuild their lives (source: 2023 Rapid Needs Assessment, Adamawa State, by OCHA). Saratu's family, including her father who is a farmer and her mother who is a teacher, was among those displaced by the flood. With no choice but to seek temporary shelter while their home was renovated, Saratu experienced profound trauma. She struggled with fear and absent-mindedness, which significantly impacted her academic performance. Amidst the chaos and uncertainty, a beacon of hope emerged in the form of the Care Best Initiative (CBI), in partnership with the International Organization for Migration (IOM), a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting communities in crisis. With generous funding from USAID through a Rapid Response Project, CBI swiftly mobilized resources to provide aid and rehabilitation services to flood-affected individuals. One day, at school, an announcement was made by community volunteers, with the school management's permission, inviting children affected by the flood to participate in psychosocial support sessions. Saratu was among those identified, and though initially hesitant, she eventually became intrigued as the sessions progressed. She shared, "Since the flood, I've struggled to focus, constantly haunted by memories of the experience. Even at school, my mind wanders, making it difficult to concentrate." As Saratu engaged in the psychosocial support sessions, facilitated by trained community volunteers, she began to experience a profound shift. Through various activities and exercises, she found solace and joy. Saratu expressed, "During the PSS sessions, I felt genuine happiness, and gradually, my ability to concentrate improved. Now, I can fully engage in class." Over time, Saratu underwent a remarkable transformation. The psychosocial support services not only helped her cope with the trauma of the flood but also equipped her with valuable life skills. With newfound resilience and determination, Saratu emerged from adversity stronger than ever before.









