The Strength of Mavis: A Beacon of Hope on World Day of Social Justice
Charles Wundengba
Four years ago, Mavis's world turned upside down. The loss of her husband left her alone, a single mother with five children, two girls and three boys, each a mirror of their father's memory. The challenge was immense, but Mavis's resolve was stronger. Her journey, marked by hardship and resilience, is a clarion call for attention to social injustices worldwide.
As their home was snatched away, leaving them without shelter, it was their Church that became their sanctuary. The family found solace in the warmth of human kindness, a beacon during their darkest times. This support was the first step in turning their lives around.
Widows in Ghana are not adequately represented and involved in decision-making processes that affect their lives and interests. They have low levels of political participation and leadership and also lack the voice and agency to advocate for their rights and needs, and to influence policies and programmes that could benefit them.
Some widows also face challenges in accessing justice, education, health, and economic empowerment. And this is where Bethany also came in. Bethany, through their Family Preservation and Empowerment program, stepped in to assess Mavis's situation. They understood that empowering Mavis was key to preventing the unnecessary separation of her children and ensuring their family's unity. With their help, Mavis embarked on a transformative journey.
Under Bethany Ghana's guidance, Mavis participated in parenting trainings. These sessions were more than just lessons; they were a gateway to understanding and responding to her children's developmental needs. Knowledge became her tool, empowerment her weapon.
The most heartening part of Mavis's journey was seeing her three boys, once uncertain of their educational future, now enrolled in school. This step was crucial, not just for their education but for instilling hope and a sense of normalcy in their lives.
Mavis's determination didn't stop there. With entrepreneurial spirit, she started a small business, preparing roasted cereals and collaborating with market women for their sale. This venture isn't just a means of livelihood; it's a symbol of her independence, her strength to build a self-sufficient future for her family.
Today, Mavis dreams bigger. She envisions her business growing, reaching new markets, and establishing a legacy of empowerment and self-reliance. Her journey is far from over, but each step she takes is a stride towards a better future for her and her children.
As the world observes the World Day of Social Justice, Mavis's story stands as a powerful reminder. It's a reminder of the ongoing struggles against social injustice, of the strength inherent in the human spirit, and of the potential for change when we support and empower one another.
“The family is the primary basic unit of human civilization. Let's protect, assist and give vulnerable families the tools they need to raise resilient children and young people so that our communities can prosper” Sylvester Freeman Anowie, Country Representative, Bethany Ghana.
Mavis is not just a widow or a single mother; she is a hero, a symbol of hope and resilience. Her story is a clarion call to all: to recognize the plights of the countless Mavises around the world, to act against social injustices, and to work towards a world where every individual has the opportunity to rise above their circumstances, just like Mavis.
On this World Day of Social Justice, let us take a moment to acknowledge the Mavises of the world, their struggles, their victories, and their unyielding spirit. Let us be inspired, let us act, and let us hope for a future where justice is not just a dream but a reality for all.