Haitian Girl Finds Hope in School Amid Violence

A Story of Hope from Haiti

A 13-year-old Haitian girl named Dieussika was forced to leave her home in Port-au-Prince due to gang violence. Despite these challenges, she urges adults not to "give up on children." "We had to leave our home, and my sister nearly died from asthma," Dieussika recounts.

After being displaced, Dieussika's family stayed in multiple temporary locations, facing a myriad of difficulties. "There are illnesses, biting insects... but despite everything, I wanted to continue going to school," she says. In a shelter for displaced persons, she resumed her studies thanks to recovery courses organized by UNICEF. Now, she dreams of becoming a significant figure in society to help children and raise awareness among young people to reject armed violence.

School has been a saving grace for Dieussika. One night, a torrential rain ruined her books and clothes, but she spent the entire night drying them, determined not to abandon her studies. "School means so much to me. Without education, my dream would be lost," she states.

Dieussika actively participates in math lessons, supported by her teacher. She wishes to change the hardships her family faces and show them that they too can follow her path. "I want to become someone important to help people. Without school, we cannot achieve our dreams," she asserts resolutely.

Her message to adults and decision-makers is clear: "Do not give up on children. Love them more and provide them with opportunities to learn and dream." Many girls like Dieussika are dropping out of school due to concerns about safety or caregiving responsibilities.

Thanks to UN activities and collaboration with Haitian authorities, educational and psychosocial support programs have reached over 17,500 children, including 10,500 girls. For Dieussika, these programs represent more than just education; they are a chance to transform fear into confidence and ambition.