Joseline is 16 years old and lives in Luvu Ombacia village in Arua City, Uganda. She is in grade 7 at Binze Primary School, where she is active in a scout club through the Uganda Girl Guides Association (UGGA). Joseline dreams of becoming a teacher and is currently a leader within UGGA, where she educates others about the menstrual cycle and women's self-confidence, among other things.
Joseline says:
“Growing up in Arua is difficult, especially for girls. Many families live in poverty and cannot support their children’s education. Alcohol abuse and domestic violence are common. For many girls, it is difficult to stay in school. Many lack the most basic things, such as school supplies or menstrual protection. Some are also forced into early marriages or pregnancies. I didn’t want my life to be like that. I wanted to study and become a teacher that people looked up to.”
When she became pregnant last year, she thought her dream was being lost.
“I thought everything was over, that I would have to drop out of school and that my whole future would be ruined.”
The first person Joseline told about her pregnancy was her UGGA leader.
“I thought I would be met with anger, but instead I was met with a warm hug,” says Joseline.
Together they told Joseline's mother and ensured that she could continue her education.
In early 2026, Precious was born, and Joseline is now combining motherhood with her studies with the help of family and leaders. She says:
“It's not easy being both a mother and a student. But I'm not giving up.”
She also says that there are others who have not received the same support:
“No one should have to choose between their child and their future.”
Joseline still wants to become a teacher and dreams of educating others about women's rights.
Please help us so that more girls have the opportunity to receive an education.
