At just 19 years old, Mariam Dickson from Chamwino Ikulu Ward, Chamwino District in Dodoma Region, embodies courage, determination, and the power of second chances. Her story is a reflection of how hope, when nurtured with opportunity and support, can turn pain into purpose.
Raised by her grandmother, Mariam grew up in a humble home filled with love but shadowed by financial hardship. She dreamed of becoming a beauty therapist, but life took a difficult turn when, at just 15 years old, she became pregnant while in Form Three.
I never thought my life would change so fast, one moment I was a student dreaming big, and the next, I was a mother, scared and unsure of what the future held.
-Mariam
The young man who had promised love and a future together abandoned her upon learning about the pregnancy. Left heartbroken and stigmatized, Mariam faced rejection not only from society but also initially from her grandmother, who had high hopes for her education. Yet, love prevailed; her grandmother chose forgiveness and stood by her side. Her grandmother told her that mistakes don’t define who we become. That gave Mariam the strength to move forward.
Despite the emotional and social challenges, Mariam safely delivered her child. Life, however, remained uncertain until 2023, when she crossed paths with Restless Development’s Kijana Imara Project, supported by UNFPA. The initiative became the bridge to rebuilding her confidence and independence.
Mariam receiving some of the beauty salon kits from the Restless Development team, witnessed by Madam Nekiwete – Chamwino Community Development Officer (CDO), and Madam Balua – CDO from Buigiri Ward.
Through the Kijana Imara training, Mariam learned about sexual and reproductive health, life skills, entrepreneurship, and financial literacy. The training reminded her that she still has the power to shape her future one decision at a time. Determined to rebuild her life, Mariam began doing small jobs around the village. The little she earned, she saved, and used part of it to learn salon and beauty skills from a local businesswoman. Mariam has always loved beauty and styling, helping someone feel beautiful gives her joy and purpose.
Her commitment didn’t go unnoticed. Seeing her determination, Restless Development stepped in to support Mariam with a full set of hairdressing and salon equipment, along with six months of rent support to help her start her own business. When she received the tools, she couldn’t hold back tears, that moment marked the beginning of her new life.
Today, Mariam is the proud owner of a small but thriving beauty salon in Chamwino. Her business not only sustains her family but also restores her dignity and confidence. She now supports her grandmother and child comfortably while saving a portion of her income for future growth. Every time Mariam welcomes a client into her salon, Mariam seeS proof that hard work and hope can change everything.
I am not the girl who gave up, I’m the woman who started again.
-Mariam
Her salon has also become a space of encouragement for other young mothers who once thought their lives were over. Mariam now dreams of expanding her business and mentoring other girls to build skills and independence. Mariam wants to show young mothers that being a mother doesn’t mean the end of their dreams. With support and determination, they can rebuild, rise, and shine again.
Mariam’s journey is more than a personal success, it’s a community victory. Her transformation shows how investing in young women through training, mentorship, and opportunity not only changes one life but uplifts many.
