Mariam Yaiya

42, Community Leader

In 1982, when I moved with my family to Bria, it was still peaceful. I was raised a Christian, but when I married a Muslim, I converted to Islam. Intermarriages were common.

Everything changed with the ‘events. We suffered a lot. I have 11 children and even finding food was hard. Our house was destroyed, the fields were destroyed, and I couldn’t return home.

This took a toll on me. I was sick. I lost hope. I couldn’t sleep. I gained my strength and I approached the Community Protection Committee as I really liked and respected them and the work they were doing.

I work with the community on solutions to the problems of the community through the generation of revenues, sewing, soap-making and brick making, while sensitising the community on GBV and social cohesion and peace building.

Being a leader makes me feel good. Now I have courage. When I see change, I am happy.

Previous slide
Next slide

Do you want an even more detailed perspective?