05/11/2026
Trigger warning: Even with some of the more graphic details removed, Faraja’s story, which involves s*xual abuse and self-harm, may be particularly difficult for readers who have survived s*xual assault or thoughts of self-harm. Please read with discretion.
Her turbulent home life forced Faraja to fend for herself financially, and she found plenty of men willing to take advantage of that vulnerability.
The 18-year-old Kenyan is strong and motivated, driven to succeed not just for her own sake, but for others, including the baby she had at just 15 years old.
Even after her mother took in Faraja’s baby, the girl had to continue to sell her body, both online and in person, to make ends meet.
Eventually, Faraja reached a breaking point. On one occasion, a group of men s*xually assaulted Faraja so brutally that she was surprised she lived through the attack.
“I… tried several times to commit suicide,” Faraja said. “But I (would wake up and) find myself in hospital.”
The exploitation continued for years. Faraja began to take drugs so that she could endure the horrific abuse. There seemed to be no hope, no way out. “I would be praying and not getting answers; asking people for help, and no one was willing to help,” Faraja explained. Then, at 17, she became pregnant again. Afraid and alone, she attempted an abortion, but the procedure failed.
That’s when Faraja met a rescue agent.
Faraja bravely decided to accompany the agent to our local project in Kenya, where she discovered she was worth so much more. “I saw that my life has meaning and purpose,” Faraja said.
After joining our project, Faraja gave birth to her son, whom she credits with motivating her through recovery. “This child is the one giving me a reason to live,” Faraja said as she held her son. “I can't imagine going back to the life I used to live before.”
The courageous young mother is also learning valuable skills to help her live free: “Having skills has really helped me to be able to get some money… to buy food for my child and help my aunt in paying rent.”
These external changes reflect a more profound transformation in Faraja’s heart. “Through rescue I have found healing,” she said. “I have found emotional and physical healing... I continue finding healing, I am very motivated in life.”
Free from the crushing desperation that drove her before, Faraja is finally able to dream again. “I want to be someone meaningful in society,” she said. “I want to help other girls who are going through the challenges I went through.”