In some parts of the world, the simple act of being born a female is a death sentence.
Globally, five women or girls are killed by a family member every hour. A grim 1 in 3 women worldwide will experience violence in their lifetime. These are horrific realities for hundreds of millions of women and girls.
Rosette is determined to change that. Because of you, she can.
Rosette is a doctor and project facilitator in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), a country where violence against women has doubled since 2001. Countless other cases remain unreported, however, due to the fear of stigmatization, retaliation and a culture of impunity.
As a local partner with Corus World Health, Rosette supports survivors of abuse with holistic care — addressing both the medical and psychological effects of violence. Survivors receive free critical health services, psychosocial counseling and specialized therapy for post-traumatic stress disorders.
As a facilitator, she has trained and empowered others in her community to recognize opportunities for women’s advancement. The women can also enroll in village savings and loan groups so they can start small businesses. Women can learn how to read in literacy classes and can access legal and mediation services for free.
"Women are underestimated in our community," Rosette said. "Women didn't know they could have their own role. They thought only men should make decisions. But since the training, a woman now knows that she also contributes to her community and her home. She must have a voice."
Corus World Health has long integrated these types of initiatives into broader health programming, emphasizing prevention, intervention and response. This comprehensive and holistic approach allows your generosity to extend beyond helping our most vulnerable neighbors — you empower them to create healthier, sustainable futures.
Rosette understands change starts locally and says the training has helped even in her own household. The women she trains start to recognize their self-worth, value, and agency, prompting others to view them in the same light.
“We tell them that if they change, others will also be able to change,” she says.
It’s working. An overwhelming 90% of survivors whom health workers like Rosette have reached expressed optimism about rebuilding their lives, a testament to the impact of their resilience, and the power of your partnership.
Because of your support of life savers like Rosette, women are finding their voice — and using it for a better life.