Lorraine N Khoza shared her harrowing story about being raped, surviving and pushing through it all to complete her degree in record time. She hopes it will empower the women of South Africa.
The #MeToo movement has given millions of women the strength and power to come forward and speak out about the things they have had to face in this life. The movement has not only empowered women but men as well. Together is always better and many men have joined the discussion too.
Graduation season has been filled with inspiring and uplifting stories. Lorraine N Khoza decided to join in and share her harrowing story. It is one of courage and success despite its origins. Lorraine felt it was time to step into the light and use her experience to empower other women.
This is Lorraine’s harrowing tale of struggle and success.
And then there’s me
Let me share my Story…
At exactly a month into Varsity, fresh from High school, I was RAPED, yes I was RAPED! By a total stranger whilst looking for accommodation in Garankuwa. I was beaten down and kicked like a dog!
If it wasn’t for my late Aunt who called Police from home I would be DEAD by now. I also don’t know where I found the strength to make that one call whilst the guy was sleeping, in the house, I was locked in.
I was in the verge of dropping out, I almost committed suicide, I was 17 years old, that was back in 2015. My Accountancy HOD even suggested I start school second semester, my mom was broken to an extent she suggested I transfer to Mbombela campus by doing that I’ll be closer to home and she’ll always be around. I went to Psychologists it didn’t work.
But
I decided to rise above it all, I continued with my studies, living in fear of bumping into the guy that violated me. I decided I’m going to be strong and I’m not going to let this break me. Up to this day, I still have flashbacks, I cry myself to sleep but I soar on.This Degree is for all women who are in the verge of giving up, for all women who are abused and afraid to speak out.
Today I finally found courage to let the whole world know I was raped, and I rose above it all, I FINISHED MY QUALIFICATION (Diploma Internal Auditing) IN RECORD TIME.
The strength, the courage, the boldness that you see every day was birthed by my disguise.
Here’s to strong womxn
We applaud your strength, Lorraine. Your story has moved us deeply. No woman or man should be faced with these struggles and hardships.
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