DREF Uganda
Abali, Kwania District
SRHR • Youth Mobilization
Acan Zerah is a 21-year-old young woman from Abali village, Abongomola sub-county, Kwania District in Northern Uganda. In 2020, after completing her Uganda Certificate of Education (UCE), she was forced to drop out of school due to the combined effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, poverty, and climate-related challenges.
Despite these setbacks, Zerah’s life took a new turn when she was identified and mentored by Dreams Rescue Foundation (DREF) Uganda. Through mentorship, she gained confidence and knowledge about Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR). She realized that many of her peers had little or no information about SRHR, and some had already fallen victim to early pregnancies.
Determined to make a difference, Zerah began mobilizing young people in her community. She encouraged adolescent girls and boys to join Champion of Change (CoC) groups, where they could learn about SRHR using participatory methods. She facilitated sessions on core SRHR topics, organized community outreaches, and linked young people to health facilities to access essential services.
“Through mentorship, I learned how to mobilize young people and advocate for issues affecting our SRHR. I am proud that many now access services and make better choices. The award warmed my heart and encouraged me to keep working hard.”
Acan Zerah
• Acan Zerah being awarded the certificate of merit.
• Zerah with other young people in the health in-charge office discussing community outreaches and advocating for youth-friendly services.
• Acan Zerah talking to parents on how to communicate with an adolescent.
• Acan having a discussion with young girls at the church premises.
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