Mary, 14, is currently in Basic 5 at Senya D/A Basic School. At the age of 9, she moved to live with her mother, where she was made to assist with fishing activities on Lake Volta while trying to continue her education.
For three years, Mary balanced school with the harsh realities of life on the lake. Her days often began as early as 3:00 a.m., casting and pulling nets, diving to untangle those stuck beneath the water, and processing fish for sale. After hours of exhausting labor and crossing the lake, she would arrive at school around 9:00 a.m., already fatigued.
Her life took a devastating turn when a boat she boarded one morning capsized. Eight people tragically lost their lives, but Mary survived. Deeply traumatized by the incident, she refused to return to the lake. Concerned for her safety, her brother reported her situation to Challenging Heights.
Through timely intervention, Mary was rescued and has since experienced a remarkable transformation. Today, she is back in school, fully focused on her education, and dreams of becoming a nurse.
Mary’s story is a powerful reminder of the dangers many children face and the urgent need to protect their rights and ensure they have access to safe and nurturing environments.