My name is Amina (pseudonym), and I am a mother to a beautiful son. I live in a small town in East Africa. My journey has been marked by hardship and struggle, but it is also a story of redemption and hope.
For many years, I worked as a waitress on the night shift at a bar. This environment eventually led me into sex work, a path taken by several women I knew. It was a means to earn money and survive, providing me with the basic necessities. Over time, this became my way of life.
Despite years in this line of work, I struggled to meet my needs. One day, I discovered I was pregnant. After giving birth, a doctor informed me that I was HIV positive. The news was devastating. I cried, sank into depression, and even contemplated ending my life. However, I eventually accepted my condition and resolved to move forward.
The DMM Journey
My life began to change when I met James and Mary (pseudonyms), a compassionate couple deeply involved in Disciple Making Movements (DMM). They reached out to me, sharing the message of Jesus and His unconditional love. When I opened up to them about my past and how I made a living, they listened without judgment and shared God’s love with me. Their empathy and support were unwavering. They visited me regularly, bringing groceries and introducing me to Discovery Bible Study (DBS). I quickly became an active participant in our small group.
One day, James and Mary suggested I invite other sex workers to join our DBS group. I reached out to some of my close friends, and a few accepted the invitation. As we continued to meet, more women joined us, though not all were consistent in their attendance. Still, I persisted in following up with them, driven by the hope and transformation I was experiencing.
Today, our group is thriving. Many women have left sex work and found new paths through business ventures and casual labor. Some have even married and are now living fulfilling lives. Our DBS group meets every Thursday, and our commitment to God grows stronger each week. We find solace and strength in our faith, knowing that we are cherished by our Savior, despite the isolation and stigma we have faced.
We have become a beacon of hope in our community. The local hospital often refers new patients to us for encouragement and support. We assure them that HIV does not define their future or extinguish their dreams. Together, we are living proof that faith, community, and the love of God can transform even the most challenging circumstances.
In sharing my story, I hope to inspire others who face similar struggles. There is always hope, and with faith and support, anyone can find a new beginning.
