Zara’s story is one of courage, hope, and survival. She shares her journey to empower other women to seek safety and healing—and to shed light on the countless women who continue to face similar struggles.
“I grew up as the eldest of seven children and witnessed more than any child should ever see. I often saw my mother being pushed, threatened, yelled at, and beaten. Violence and fear were part of our daily lives, and over time, it started to feel normal.
There were also good moments — like meals together without tension. Those glimpses made me believe marriage was a mix of love and hardship; that this was simply how relationships worked.
So, when it came time for me to meet potential marriage proposals, I didn’t recognize certain behaviours as red flags. Displays of anger or disrespect didn’t alarm me; I told myself it was just part of a man’s nature. I didn’t yet understand that what I had grown up seeing wasn’t normal — it was abuse.
As a result, I found myself in a marriage that reflected much of what I had grown up seeing. The signs were there from the beginning — the anger, the control, the disrespect — but I convinced myself that things would get better. Instead, they only got worse. Over the years, the abuse became more frequent and severe.
By the time I was pregnant with our fourth child, I had reached a breaking point. I realized I couldn’t keep living like this, and I couldn’t let my children grow up believing that this was normal. I decided that day would be the last time I was beaten. With no work experience, no post-secondary education, and no source of income, I didn’t know where to turn — until I reached out to Nisa Foundation for help.
The support I received from the Nisa Foundation through their transitional shelter program was life changing. The caseworkers guided me through every step of the legal process and helped me learn the practical skills I needed to start over.
Alhamdulillah, I now live safely in my own apartment with my children. We’re rebuilding our lives. For the first time in years, I feel hopeful about our future.”
*This story is based on a real Nisa Foundation client. However, names and identifying details have been changed to protect the privacy of all involved. *
Zara’s story is one of resilience, courage, and hope — but there are many more women like her who need support to rebuild their lives and find safety.
As we mark the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, we are reminded that creating real change requires action — not just for 16 days, but every single day. To make a lasting impact, become a monthly donor. Ending the cycle of abuse means standing together to raise awareness, support survivors, and help build communities where women and children can live free from fear.
By supporting Nisa Foundation, you make that change possible. Your generosity allows us to continue providing safe shelter, counselling, legal and financial guidance, and the tools women need to start over. Every contribution helps a survivor like Zara take her first step toward independence and healing.
Donate today to help end the cycle of abuse and empower women and children to live safely, independently, and with dignity — during the 16 Days of Activism and beyond.
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