The Mustadafin Foundation is helping vulnerable young mothers rebuild their lives, providing dignity, stability and essential support during pregnancy and early motherhood.
For Angie*, pregnancy arrived at a moment when she was already navigating financial hardship and limited family support. Overwhelmed and uncertain about her future, she faced the reality of becoming a young, single mother without the resources to cope.
“I was struggling financially and didn’t have much family support,” she recalls. “I realised early on that I couldn’t do this on my own.”
Turning to Mustadafin became a pivotal moment. The organisation, which has supported vulnerable women, children and families for decades, offered not only food parcels and maternity supplies, but also emotional care and consistent follow-up support.
“The most important part was being treated with dignity and kindness,” she says. “I wasn’t made to feel ashamed of my situation. I was supported, not judged.”
During her pregnancy, Mustadafin provided practical assistance that helped Angie navigate daily survival, while emotional support helped restore her sense of self-worth.
“Practically, it helped me survive. I didn’t have to worry as much about where my next meal would come from,” she explains. “Emotionally, knowing someone cared made me feel less invisible and less alone.”
After her baby was born, the support continued. Baby essentials, guidance and encouragement allowed Angie to focus on bonding with her child and rebuilding her life. She has since enrolled in classes and is working to secure a more stable future.
“The ongoing care has given me strength,” she says. “It reminded me that I’m not failing just because I’m poor. Motherhood is hard, but having support makes it possible.”
Mustadafin director Ghairunisa Johnstone-Cassiem says Angie’s story reflects the lived reality of many women facing pregnancy in vulnerable circumstances.
“Pregnancy and early motherhood can be incredibly vulnerable periods, especially for young women facing poverty, isolation or trauma,” she says. “Support must go beyond material assistance. Treating women with dignity, offering consistent care and creating safe spaces are essential.”
Beyond immediate relief, Mustadafin provides workshops, support groups and mental health programmes, helping mothers build resilience and create pathways toward independence.
Name changed to protect identity.
