Trying to become someone

Hello,

My name is Tharcisse. I am a 20 year old trying to build a future despite a life that has been anything but easy. I don’t often share my story, but I have learned that opening up and asking for help can make all the difference.

I was born in Kinshasa, DRC. My mother passed away when I was young, and I never met my father. At the age of one, my aunt took me in and raised me alongside her children. While my early childhood was stable, things changed as I grew older, and I began experiencing unfair treatment and punishment.

In 2015, we moved to South Africa in search of medical care for my cousin and better educational opportunities. My aunt soon returned to the DRC, leaving us behind. Over the years, we were moved from place to place, often facing instability and abuse. In , after my teachers noticed signs of abuse, a social worker intervened and my cousin and I were placed at Lawrence House, a safe home run by the Scalabrini Centre. This was a turning point for me, I received therapy, support, and found positive outlets such as rock climbing.

In 2022,...