A Mother Who Never Gave Up: Mebra's Story

The James Place is filled with resilient women that we've been able to partner with to see their lives changed. Mebra’s story is a testament to the strength and resilience of women who, despite facing overwhelming challenges, refuse to give up on their dreams and their family. Heal Ministries has been able to be a part of empowering her and inspiring change in her life, and we're happy to say she is thriving!

While working at a hotel in Mombasa, Mebra's life changed in a moment when she found out she was pregnant at the age of 17 with her first child, Vanesa. Overwhelmed with joy, yet burdened with the responsibility of providing for her beautiful baby girl, Mebra moved back to Uganda to be with her parents. While there, she gave birth to her second daughter, Rihana. Determined to give her children a better future, she started a small boutique in Jinja, Uganda. However, life threw more challenges her way. After the birth of her son Valentino in 2015, her children's father left. Abandoned with three little ones, Mebra closed her business and devoted herself to caring for her children. 

Mebra continued on in the face of adversity and challenges. She found a job at a resort hotel in Nairobi, where she began rebuilding her life. Unfortunately, she lost her job during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, leaving her without a steady income to support herself and her babies. Unemployed and unsure where to go, she struggled to make ends meet for herself and her children. Anyone in that situation would be tempted to give up hope.  

But in 2024, Mebra's hope for herself and her children was realized--she found the James Place. She took a job working in the kitchen, a role that not only provides her with stability and income, but also a renewed sense of purpose. She also has a community who loves her and is there for her. In this role, she is empowered to provide and care for her children and ensure that they get a good education to set them up well. In fact, her daughter Vanessa has just completed Senior 4! She is also a wonderful member of our community, bringing joy and life wherever she goes.