At just 39 years old, Abuk Buol has lived through the unimaginable: conflict-related sexual violence (CRSV), displacement, and the trauma of war. But today, she stands as a symbol of resilience and empowerment, one of 60 participants in a workshop aimed at supporting survivors of CRSV in rebuilding their lives and communities.

Abuk, a mother of six, has returned to her hometown of Bor, 183 kilometers from Juba, after years of upheaval. With support from a UN-backed initiative, she has received training in tailoring and soap-making, enabling her to generate income and support her family.

The workshop, held in Juba, is part of a broader project supported by UNFPA, UNMISS, and the International Trade Centre, in collaboration with South Sudan’s Ministry of Gender, Child and Social Welfare. It provides medical care, psychosocial support, legal aid, and livelihood assistance to survivors across Jonglei, Unity, Western Equatoria, and Juba.

The initiative not only offers services but also encourages survivors to speak out and support others. “Each survivor’s story is a testament to their unyielding spirit,” said Sheila Keetharuth, Senior Women’s Protection Advisor at UNMISS.

Workshops like these aim to strengthen coordination, share best practices, and influence policy reform, ensuring that survivors like Abuk are not just recipients of aid but leaders in their own recovery.

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