When the DREAMS program was introduced in Nabweru Kafunda, Kawempe Division in late 2021, one of the first young women to step forward was 23-year-old Daphine Namukasa. At the time, her life was in crisis. She was struggling with alcohol and drug addiction, had dropped out of school, and was engaged in high-risk sexual relationships with multiple partners. Depression and hopelessness clouded her future, and she often questioned whether her life had any meaning.

At the safe space, Daphine found mentors who listened without judgment. With their support, she gained the courage to test for HIV. Choosing a self-test because of her fear, she was relieved when the negative result was confirmed. This moment marked the beginning of a profound shift in her life.

Through Stepping Stones sessions, especially the module “Loving Me, Loving You,” Daphine rebuilt her self-esteem and learned to value herself. She gained critical knowledge about HIV prevention, safer sex, and family planning. Financial literacy training and membership in a Village Savings and Loan Association (VSLA) equipped her with the skills to plan and save for the future.

Her passion and commitment quickly stood out. She began volunteering in program activities, was selected as a peer leader, and later trained in computer and secretarial studies. She was recruited as a paid DREAMS Data Entrant and eventually became the leader of the Kawempe Data Team. Determined to continue her education, she saved UGX 10,000 (USD 3) per week. By March 2022, she had accumulated UGX 600,000 (USD 162), which enabled her to enroll at Makerere University in October 2022 to pursue a Bachelor of Arts in Social Sciences.

“DREAMS redefined my life and gave me purpose,” Daphine says. “I now believe in myself, and I know I can achieve my goals.”

The DREAMS program, supported by CDC and implemented by the Infectious Diseases Institute (IDI), is giving young women like Daphine the opportunity to turn vulnerability into resilience and to build safe, purposeful, and empowered futures.