HEARTSTRINGS, HEADACHES, AND CAMARADERIE: My NGO Saga

I joined DNF as a Case Manager in November 2023. and my experience here has been vastly different from anything I had imagined or expected. I have had experiences that challenged my mind and caused me to truly understand my capabilities in interacting with individuals in a workplace/professional setting. Each client I encounter comes with a unique set of circumstances, requiring a flexible and empathetic approach. It is through these encounters that I have learned the importance of adaptability and the need for continuous self-reflection. Most importantly, my ideas surrounding Gender-Based Violence and my approach to understanding the intricacies of response in Nigeria have been completely altered.

When discussing the roles of NGOs in Nigeria's recent history, it’s easy to question their ability to bring about tangible change. However, my experience at DNF has been a testament to the transformative power of dedicated organizations. Witnessing the profound impact of our collective efforts on the lives of survivors has reaffirmed my belief in the power of organizations to effect meaningful change in the lives of those who have experienced the horrors of SGBV.

Working with DNF kickstarted an inspirational journey within me to learn and develop for the sake of my career in activism and the well-being of my clients. I have grown tremendously so far and I appreciate every aspect of it. However, this journey has not been without its challenges. Dealing with survivors in delicate mental situations has exposed me to emotional turmoil that I hadn’t anticipated. The weight of their stories and the struggles they face can be overwhelming, yet it is through these moments that the true importance of our work becomes evident. It is a testament to the resilience of survivors and the significance of our roles as responders in providing support and healing.

The nature of our work almost always means that, on most days, we will return home exhausted physically and mentally. One would imagine that this makes it difficult to look forward to the next day but this is not the case with DNF because each day presents a new opportunity to create a meaningful impact on one or two lives and/or contribute to the actualisation of a better, safer society.

Amidst the challenges of case management, there is a symphony of laughter and positive bonding with the team that acts as a crucial pillar of support. In the face of adversity, the camaraderie within our organization has proven to be a source of strength for me. The ability to share both the burdens and joys of this demanding work with a compassionate and understanding team has made the journey more fulfilling. The Executive Director has created a warm environment that balances lightheartedness, accountability, and dependability within the team.

I have loved sharing laughs with the Team members while learning so much about administration and management in SGBV response. I am immensely grateful for this opportunity.

IDRIS LATEEFAT……..