Naomi Claris Suleiman, a 17-year-old from the village of Kachororoni in Ganze Sub County, Kilifi, faced life-altering challenges when she became pregnant at just 15 while in Primary 7. Despite the hardships, Claris displayed remarkable resilience, continuing her education and sitting for her Kenya Certificate of Primary Education (KCPE) exams. Against the odds, she successfully completed her exams, earning 281 out of 500 marks, a testament to her determination in the face of teenage pregnancy and her family’s financial struggles.
The Struggle After Childbirth
Shortly after her exams, Claris gave birth to her child. With a newborn to care for and her parents unable to support her education, she was forced to drop out of school. Like many young girls in her community, she faced societal pressure to abandon her education and focus on household chores while raising her child. In a community where education for girls, especially teenage mothers, is rarely prioritized, it seemed as though Claris’s future was already decided.
Refusing to Give Up on Her Dreams
Now 17, Claris refuses to give up on her dreams. She is determined to break the cycle of poverty and limited opportunities for her daughter, proving that young mothers can still achieve great success. With the right support, Claris believes she can return to school, complete her secondary education, and fulfill her dream of becoming a nurse.
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“I want to show my daughter that being a young mother doesn’t mean the end of your dreams,” Claris says. “With the right support, I know I can finish school and build a better life for both of us.”.– Naomi Claris Suleiman
A Call for Support Naomi Claris Suleiman’s story is one of hope, resilience, and a commitment to creating a brighter future for herself and her child. With your support, Claris can return to school, pursue her dream, and break the barriers that hold back so many young mothers like her.
How You Can Help Your contribution can help Claris continue her education, changing not only her life but also the future for her daughter.