I Give So Mothers Live: My Journey as a Sexual, Reproductive, Maternal, Newborn and Child

I am a Sexual, Reproductive, Maternal, Newborn and Child Health (SRMNCH) champion. In simple terms, this means I work to make sure women, mothers, babies, children, and young people are healthy, safe, and supported in our communities. I stand with women and families so they can access the care, information, and dignity they deserve—especially during pregnancy, childbirth, and early childhood.

I about their own bodies and futures. These realities moved me to act.

As a champion, I work closely with communities, especially women and young people, to raise awareness about important health issues. I help break down complex health information into simple, understandable messages. I talk about family planning, safe motherhood, proper nutrition, breastfeeding, immunization, and the importance of attending clinics before and after childbirth. I also create safe spaces where women can speak openly about their challenges without fear or judgment.

One of the most powerful things I have learned is that information saves lives. When a mother understands the danger signs during pregnancy, she can seek help early. When a young girl understands her reproductive health, she can protect herself and plan her future. When families understand the importance of nutrition and hygiene, children grow healthier and stronger. Knowledge is power, and sharing it is one of the greatest gifts we can give.

But my work goes beyond sharing information. I also advocate for better health services. This means speaking up for communities that are often unheard. I engage leaders, health workers, and policymakers to ensure that services are available, accessible, and respectful. I believe that every woman deserves quality care—no matter where she lives or her financial situation.

I strongly believe in the power of community. Change does not happen alone. That is why I work with mentor mothers, peer educators, and people living with HIV who support others through shared experiences. These community members are trusted voices. They walk alongside others, offering guidance, encouragement, and hope. When we include them, health programs become more effective and more human.

In my journey, I have seen the impact of simple actions. I have seen mothers who once feared hospitals now confidently attending antenatal clinics. I have seen young girls who were once silent now speaking up about their rights and dreams. I have seen families coming together to support pregnant women and newborns. These moments remind me that change is possible.

However, challenges still exist. In many places, health services are not fully integrated. Some programs are designed from the top without fully involving the community. This creates gaps in care. For example, mentor mothers and peer educators are sometimes overlooked, yet they play a critical role in reaching people at the grassroots level. I continue to advocate for their inclusion because sustainable change must involve the community.

Through my work, I give my time, my voice, and my passion. I give by educating, mentoring, and advocating. I give by standing with women in their most vulnerable moments. I give by believing in a future where no woman dies while giving life, and every child has a healthy start.

And in return, I gain so much.

I gain strength from the resilience of the women I work with. I gain hope when I see change happening, even in small ways. I gain purpose knowing that my work contributes to healthier families and stronger communities. Most importantly, I gain a sense of fulfillment that comes from serving others.

As part of the #GiveToGain movement, my vision is clear: I give so that women can live, children can thrive, and communities can grow stronger together. I give so that every girl can grow up informed, confident, and empowered. I give so that health is not a privilege, but a right for all.

My dream is a world where maternal and child health is a priority everywhere. A world where health systems listen to communities. A world where women support each other, uplift each other, and create lasting change together.

To other women and changemakers, I say this: your voice matters. Your story matters. Your actions, no matter how small they seem, can change someone’s life. When we support each other, we do more than survive—we thrive.

Because when women give, the world truly gains.