A Girl’s Vision: Overcoming Challenges in South Sudan. The Story of Achol.

In South Sudan, girls’ dreams and visions are often shaped by a mix of hope, determination, and the harsh realities girls face. The theme, ‘Girls’ Vision for the Future’, for this year’s International Day of the Girl could not be more fitting. It highlights the powerful aspirations that so many young girls in South Sudan carry within them, despite the barriers they face. Their visions of becoming doctors, engineers, journalists, leaders, and more are a testament to their resilience and strength. However, the path to realising these visions is not always easy. 

In South Sudan, girls face numerous challenges that threaten to derail their dreams. Gender inequality remains a persistent issue, where societal norms often prioritise boys’ education over girls’. Many girls are forced to drop out of school due to early marriages, poverty, and lack of support to their education. Girls also face the risk of violence and lack of access to basic health services, which can further impede their ability to pursue an education and achieve their goals. 

Poverty is another significant barrier. In many households, resources are scarce, and girls are often expected to stay at home to help with household chores or care for younger siblings, limiting their ability to attend school regularly. The lack of proper school infrastructure, especially in rural areas, means that even when girls manage to attend school, the environment may not be conducive to learning. 

 Despite these challenges, many girls are pushing through these barriers with sheer willpower. One such example is my story!  

My story: Achieving my vision as a journalist and communications specialist. 

My name is Achol, I’m from a small town in South Sudan, I have always had a passion for storytelling. I dreamt of becoming a journalist and communications specialist, hoping to one day use my voice to tell the stories of my people and amplify the voices of those who were often unheard. But in a society where girls were rarely encouraged to pursue careers, my vision seemed like a distant dream.  

Luckily for me I have a supportive family who was ready to help me achieve this dream. I found a mentor in one of my teachers, who encouraged me to participate in a school journalism club, where I started as a reporter. 

Despite the insecurity in the country, financial difficulties, and the societal expectations that mount pressure on the girls, I worked hard in school and began honing my skills in writing and public speaking. With my perseverance and the support of my family, mentors and the Girls’ Education South Sudan (GESS) programme that saw me complete secondary school, I managed to secure a sponsorship to pursue studies in Journalism and Communications at university. Today, I am able to work and volunteer for local radio stations and organisations where I report on important issues affecting my community, including women and girls. I am also a Communications Intern with the Girls’ Education South Sudan Programme! 

I believe my voice can now be a powerful tool for change, and that my story can inspire many young girls to overcome challenges and pursue their visions. 

My message to girls in South Sudan 

To all the girls out there with dreams and visions, know that your aspirations are valid, and that they matter. The path to achieving your vision may be tough, and the challenges you face may seem insurmountable at times, but every step you take brings you closer to your goal. Look to women like Nunu Kumba, the Speaker of Parliament for South Sudan’s National Assembly, who have defied the odds and broken through barriers to make their dreams a reality. You, too, can do it. 

Believe in yourself and surround yourself with people who believe in you as well. Keep pushing forward, whether it is through your studies, your passions, or your community involvement. Remember that every girl has a unique vision, and yours is worth pursuing. 

Together, we can build a future where girls’ visions are not just dreams, but realities. Let your vision guide you, inspire you, and keep moving forward, no matter how difficult the road may seem. Your future is bright, and your vision is powerful. Do not give up! 

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