A new ray of hope for women in refugee settings – Betty Small

In the quiet fields of Imvempi Settlement, the rhythmic sound of sesame seeds being cleaned echoes a story of hope and resilience. Betty Small, a refugee woman farmer, carefully sifts through her latest harvest — a testament to her strength and determination.

Life wasn’t always this peaceful for Betty. After enduring deep emotional trauma from displacement and loss, she struggled to find stability. But through mental health and psycho-social support services provided within the settlement, Betty found the healing she needed. Supported by trained counselors, she began to rebuild her confidence and reimagine her future.

Today, Betty is thriving. She rents land from the generous host community, where she plants sesame and other crops. Farming not only provides her with food and income, but also a renewed sense of purpose. With each harvest, she is proving that recovery is possible and that every woman deserves the opportunity to live a dignified, productive life.

Betty’s journey is a powerful reminder that with the right support, healing and self-reliance go hand in hand.