When Listening Became a Form of Resistance

When I started Voice Against GBV, I was not sure if I could succeed.

All I knew was that the silence around gender-based violence felt heavy. Too many women and girls were suffering quietly, carrying pain that was never acknowledged. I did not have a perfect plan. I only had the intention to create a space where someone, somewhere, could speak without fear.

In the beginning, it was just me, one voice trying to question a culture of silence. I often wondered if anyone would reach out. If anyone would trust a small initiative enough to share something so personal.

Then the messages began to come.

Girls started writing to us through social media. Some shared their stories anonymously. Some wrote long paragraphs filled with years of suppressed emotion. Reading their experiences broke me down. Not because they were weak, but because they were incredibly strong, surviving situations that no one should have to endure.

At that moment, I realized this mission was bigger than my doubts.

I gave what I could at first, my time, my empathy, my presence. I listened. I validated their feelings. I reminded them that what happened to them was not their fault. Sometimes support was simply responding at the right moment so they did not feel alone in the dark.

As the initiative grew, something powerful happened. What started as an individual effort became a team. Today, we are five members, each carrying our own responsibilities but united by the same purpose. Together, we provide emotional support, suggest legal pathways when possible, and explore ways to guide girls toward financial stability and independence. We cannot fix everything, but we can ensure they are heard.

The ripple of change became visible in ways I did not expect. Engagement on our social platforms increased. Women began encouraging other women in the comments. Survivors started telling others, “You are not alone.” The response spoke louder than numbers. It showed that many people want justice. Many want to speak. Many are just waiting for someone to create a safe space.

When one woman speaks, another gathers courage. When one story is validated, another finds strength to step forward.

That is what #GiveToGain means to me.

When I gave space, I gained a community.

When we gave support, we gained collective courage.

When we chose to listen, more voices rose.

Voice Against GBV began with uncertainty. Today, it continues with shared responsibility, shared empathy, and shared strength.

And the ripple is still growing.