Promoting a safe, responsive sexual reproductive health rights environment for girls and women in Juba, South Sudan Project

Success Story: Marlin Poni’s Journey of Empowerment and Advocacy

Marlin Poni

“Let the girl grow and study first, don’t think of money. The money for marriage is small, but when the girl is educated, it comes back triple.”

Marlin Poni Steven John, a young and determined woman from Rajaf Payam in South Sudan, embarked on a transformative journey with Jamnel Care Organization. She joined the training program that aimed to empower women and girls to recognize their sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) as fundamental human rights and equip them with the skills to advocate for these rights.

Merlin Poni Listening attentively during the session

During the training, Marlin Poni discovered her voice and the power it held. She realized the importance of education and the impact it could have on her life and the lives of other young girls in her community. With passion and conviction, she shared, “Let the girl grow and study first, don’t think of money. The money for marriage is small, but when the girl is educated, it comes back triple.”

Marlin Poni learned to assert her rights and stand up against the societal pressures that often lead to early and forced marriages. She knew that education was her key to a brighter future, and she wanted to inspire other girls to believe in their potential.

“I am encouraging Jamnel Care to teach me a lot so that I can be strong and, if I face such a challenge, I can handle it,” Marlin Poni expressed confidently. She understood the importance of being equipped with knowledge and skills to navigate difficult situations, such as sexual assault. With newfound knowledge, she became determined to support other girls who had experienced such trauma.

Marlin Poni emerged as a beacon of strength within her community, advocating for empowerment, safety, and justice. She recognized the need for a compassionate response to survivors of sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) and worked towards eradicating the stigma and discrimination that often hinder survivors from seeking support.

From the training, Marlin Poni learned the importance of supporting survivors and encouraging them to seek medical assistance. She emphasized, “For the girls who are taken through psychosocial support, they will not feel left out and neglected.” Armed with knowledge and understanding, Marlin Poni became a source of comfort and guidance to her peers who had experienced the traumatic effects of SGBV.

Today, Marlin Poni stands tall, embodying the principles of self-determination and empowerment. She proudly chants, “My Body My Right, My Body My Right,” asserting the importance of bodily autonomy and the right to make informed decisions about one’s reproductive health.

Marlin Poni’s journey serves as an inspiration to all, reminding us of the transformative power of education, advocacy, and solidarity. Through her relentless efforts, Marlin Poni has become a catalyst for change, challenging societal norms and working towards ensuring a society where the rights of women and girls are respected and protected.

As Marlin Poni continues to navigate the path of empowerment and advocacy, her story serves as a powerful reminder that even in the face of adversity, there is strength, resilience, and hope.

“My Body My Right, My Body My Right, My Body My Right” – she shouted