Across the African communities we serve, the local women living with HIV—trained and employed as community health workers known as Mentor Mothers—are not just surviving. They are transforming lives, creating hope, and proving every day that when women support women, nothing can stand in their way.  

One remarkable woman whose journey embodies this is Mentor Mother Grace from Nigeria. Her story shows how courage, sisterhood, and service can overturn stigma, inspire resilience, and spark change for families in her community.

We spoke with her about her journey, what finding a sisterhood of Mentor Mothers has meant to her, and the message she has for young women and girls is on this International Women’s Day.  

Did you face any cultural or societal barriers as a young girl and woman, and how did they hold you back? 

Yes, I faced many barriers growing up—barriers that many girls know all too well. As a young girl, poverty and gender expectations made it difficult to dream beyond survival. Sometimes it felt like girls were expected to endure rather than achieve. We were—and often still are—expected to stay home to cook, fetch water, or care for younger siblings, while boys were encouraged to continue their education and focus on their future. These expectations limited my dreams before they even had a chance to take shape.  

Later, when I learned I was living with HIV at 29 years old, stigma and fear became new obstacles. I was worried about being judged, rejected, or seen as less worthy. These barriers affected my confidence and made me question what I could become in the future. 

How did you overcome these barriers? 

Overcoming these barriers was a decade-long journey of acceptance, courage, and support. I chose to take care of my health and remain on treatment.  

When I joined mothers2mothers in 2024, I found knowledge, support, a sisterhood, and a renewed sense of purpose to help other women and families in my community. I met women who understood my pain and reminded me that my life was not over. Through their support, I found my voice again. I realised that my story was not something to hide—it was something that could bring hope to others.

How has being a Mentor Mother and finding this sisterhood changed your life? 

Becoming a Mentor Mother changed my life completely. It turned my struggles into strength and my pain into purpose.  

I now approach life with compassion and patience because I understand what other women are going through. I support them by listening, encouraging them to stay on treatment, and reminding them that living with HIV does not stop them from being strong mothers and successful women.  

Helping others has also helped me heal. 

Being surrounded by other strong women lifted my confidence in ways I never imagined. Their courage inspired me to believe in myself again.  

Together, we share our stories, support each other, and remind one another that we are not alone. This sisterhood changed how I see myself—not as a victim of circumstances, but as a woman with strength, hope, and purpose. That confidence allows me to support women with empathy and encouragement. I can guide them, reassure them, and show through my own journey that they can overcome stigma, stay healthy, and care for their children. It helps me stand as an example of strength and resilience. 

How do you now support women and girls to push past barriers? 

I support women and girls by educating them, encouraging them, and standing beside them in difficult moments. I teach them about HIV prevention and treatment, maternal health, and the importance of valuing themselves. I also encourage male partners, fathers, and brothers to support women’s health and wellbeing. When men are informed and involved, it reduces stigma, strengthens families, and helps women feel safer when making health decisions.  

I also advocate for them to access healthcare services and speak up for their rights. By sharing my journey, I help them see that their challenges do not define their future. 

What change do you want to see in your community and beyond? 

I want to see a community where women are respected and supported, regardless of their health status.  

I hope for a future where stigma against HIV is eliminated and every woman has access to quality healthcare, education, and opportunities to improve her life. When women are empowered, families grow stronger and communities prosper. 

What is your message to other women and girls this International Women’s Day? 

My message this International Women’s Day is that women around the world should remember that we are stronger together.  

Our challenges may differ, but our strength is shared. Let us continue to support one another, break barriers, and create a future where every girl grows up knowing her worth and her power. 

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This International Women’s Day, we celebrate women like Grace—women who prove that challenges may differ, but strength is shared. When women support women, communities grow stronger, futures shine brighter, and nothing can stop us.

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