Getting Back To Life - A Story of Survival and Success
Out of the blue, at the tender age of 13, Chia found herself sitting on a bridal stage, about to marry a man who was 35 years old. Her parents had arranged the match, finding the man from their nearby locality in Bhairab.
He was a small and medium-sized enterprise (SME) businessman who occasionally sold vegetables and fruits on the street. Chia's aspirations and youthful dreams were abruptly interrupted by this sudden marriage. Instead of books, she found herself with kitchen utensils in her hands. She went from feeling like a princess to becoming a servant overnight.
In the early days of her new life, Chia began to realise that her husband led a double life. He was addicted to alcohol and illegal substances, often returning home late at night from work in
an unstable and intoxicated state. As time went on, he started physically abusing Chia, making it a nightly routine.
One day, against her husband's wishes, Chia decided to purchase some necessary furniture. It was a day she would never forget. She anticipated her husband's happiness
upon seeing the beautifully decorated bedroom, but instead, he mercilessly beat her upon discovering the furniture. He kicked her, causing her to fall down the stairs, rendering her unconscious.
That day, Chia made the decision to return to her parent's home. After a few days of staying with her parents, Chia began experiencing dizziness and nausea, only to discover that she was pregnant. This revelation left her feeling utterly
devastated. She reluctantly went back to her husband's house.
The cycle of abuse continued throughout her married life, while she also had to raise two children—a girl and a boy.
In 2017, Chia finally gathered the courage to leave her husband and start a new life with her children. Initially working as a housemaid, she eventually found employment in a
garment factory. However, her income was not sufficient to meet her expectations. She faced ridicule and judgment from her family and society for living without her husband.
Deeply fearful and insecure, she fell into a crippling depression, burdened by her traumatic past and current uncertainties. Life became increasingly complex. At this critical juncture, Chia encountered a social worker through one of the
beneficiaries of our organisation. Finally, a glimmer of hope emerged as she learned about the Sreepur Village. After completing all the necessary procedures, Chia and her two
children were admitted to the Sreepur Village on 8th October 2020.
After spending almost 2.7 years here, she regained the sparkle in her eyes, reminiscent of her carefree days at her
parent's house. Now, she can confidently smile, ready to face the challenges that lie ahead.
She received training in tailoring, goat rearing, duck rearing, garment work, bamboo weaving, grocery shop business, and puffed rice making. Ultimately, she resolved to pursue
a career in tailoring.
At the end of this year Chia plans to return to her parent's locality and open a tailoring shop.
Thanks to the training she received at Sreepur Village, she has also gained knowledge on making career decisions and caring for her children. Her aspirations are to see her daughter
become a doctor and her son become a lawyer. Chia is willing to work tirelessly to fulfil her children's dreams.
She expresses immense gratitude to Sreepur Village for bringing peace and confidence back into her life, allowing her to live life to the fullest.
Leave a comment
Also in News
The Route to Happiness
Bobita's Story of Resilience and Determination
In 2020 after her husband left her for another woman, Bobita was welcomed at Sreepur Village, the only residential organisation in Bangladesh to offer long-term training and development to mothers while ensuring they remain together with their children
Transforming Kulsum's Life.
When life took a difficult turn with her husband falling ill and struggling to support the family, Kulsum faced challenges that seemed insurmountable. Despite seeking help from her family, the situation remained incredibly tough. However, the introduction to Sreepur Village and the assistance provided by the organisation marked a turning point in Kulsum's life.
