Ajak’s story: From village girl to community hero
My name is Ajak, and I was born and raised in Ngo-Dakala village, in Wau, South Sudan.Growing up, I always felt a deep connection to my community. My father, a respected elder, would tell me stories of our village - stories of resilience and strength, but also of the challenges we faced, especially in healthcare. I knew from a young age that I wanted to help.When I heard about the REACH programme through the South Sudan Red Cross, I felt a spark of hope.This was my chance to make a real difference. I joined the programme with a heart full of determination and a mind eager to learn.The training was challenging, but I embraced every moment. I learned how to administer vaccinations, provide maternal care, and educate my community about hygiene and disease prevention.But the most valuable lesson was empathy - understanding and connecting with people on a personal level. That's what truly makes a difference.Our village faced a severe malaria outbreak shortly after I completed my training. It was a terrifying time. Children were falling ill, and the nearest health centre was too far to reach quickly. I knew I had to act.With the medical supplies I received from the training, I turned my home into a makeshift clinic. Neighbours came seeking treatment, and soon my house became the community clinic.I also went door to door, educating families on how to prevent the disease from spreading. It was exhausting, but seeing the number of cases decline made it all worth it. The community began to trust me, and I felt a profound sense of purpose.My work extends beyond healthcare. I want to inspire young girls in my village to pursue education and believe in their dreams. I often tell them, 'Education is the first step to change. With knowledge, we can overcome any obstacle.'With the support of the South Sudan Red Cross and the REACH programme, I have been able to expand my efforts, reaching neighbouring villages and creating a network of trained community health workers. Together, we are building a healthier future for our communities.As I look out over the village of Ngo-Dakala, I see a bright future. A future where health is a right, not a privilege. Where every life is valued, and every community thrives. This is the legacy I hope to leave behind. This is my story.