A Journey of Resilience, Opportunity and Generational Impact
As Gift of Hope celebrates 20 years, Julia reflects on the journey that began in 2007, the support that helped her rebuild her life, and the future she has worked so hard to create for her son.
Julia’s Story:
I was diagnosed with HIV in 2000. At first, I lived in denial. I believed that because I was a good person and was not promiscuous, HIV could not happen to me. I eventually learned that HIV does not discriminate.
I was raped when I was 19 years old. The attack changed my life in ways I continue to live with today. I lost sight in one eye, and I have recently undergone surgeries. The experience still haunts me. The financial burden of these surgeries has also been difficult, as it is money I wish I could have put toward my son's education instead.
I also lost three babies before Shemaiah was born. I learned that I was HIV-positive during my second pregnancy, and I went into denial.
A sweet memory of Lauren and my son, Shemaiah, when he was little.
In 2007, when my son was barely two months old, I met Lauren in Durban, South Africa, at the Sinikithemba ART clinic. At the time, I was unemployed, struggling with hospital bills I could not afford, and uncertain about what the future held.
Through Gift of Hope, Lauren paid my hospital bills in full. That was the beginning of a relationship that would change the course of my life.
Gift of Hope has always meant more to me than a programme. It has been a home of comfort, a refuge in difficult times, and a beacon of hope when life felt uncertain. It was more than financial assistance — it restored my belief that tomorrow could be better.
In 2010, I left an abusive marriage in South Africa and returned to Zambia. I had no degree, no job, and no money — little more than hope. Lauren sponsored my college education, and I graduated in 2014. I have been working ever since, raising my son as a single mother.
Today, my son Shemaiah is 19 years old and HIV-negative. He is in his second year at university, pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Computer Sciences. His dream is to join the Zambia Air Force after graduation. Despite the challenges I have faced, I am proud to be able to support his education and help him pursue his dreams.
So proud of the man he grew up to be ❤️
In January 2026, I lost my job after several donor-funded tenders were unsuccessful. My transport business is currently helping us get by as I work to rebuild.
Even through these challenges, I am reminded of how far we have come. Gift of Hope has been part of our story since 2007. It helped a struggling mother find her feet and gave her son the opportunity to dream beyond his circumstances.
Today, I may not be where I want to be, but I am certainly not where I started. I remain deeply grateful to Lauren and Gift of Hope for the support, kindness, and opportunities that have helped shape our lives.
All in all, a little kindness can change the direction of an entire generation. Thank you for changing mine.
— Julia
Help us make more stories like this possible—and create healing, hope, and brighter futures for generations to come.