Happiness, a Zimbabwean by birth, sought protection in Ireland in 2021. Her decision to flee was prompted by harrowing abuse, including imprisonment and death threats from her politically influential ex-husband and his family. Battling ghosts from the past and life as a protection applicant, her early days were characterised by mistrust, anxiety, and depression.
“I had no knowledge of the process of asylum application, and it took a toll on my mental health. I was overwhelmed that I had made it alive so far away from home and uncertain if I was completely safe. I was initially skeptical about sharing my story, not sure who to trust and if I would be exposed to my perpetrators.
“My time in quarantine was the most stressful, alone and wondering how my daughters, whom I left back home, were doing and if they would be safe. At some point, I felt like a coward for saving myself and not my children, wondering if anything happened to them would I forgive myself.”
Knowing she needed help, Happiness started by seeking counselling. It was from her counsellor that she heard about the IRC. Happiness contacted the IRC Independent Law Centre for help with her application and the Education team for assistance with enrolling in Higher and Tertiary Education.
“I received great support in filling out and understanding questions in my application and submitted through my solicitor. At this stage, I felt a ray of hope as I could ask and communicate with my solicitor about any concerns I had.
“I had both emotional and legal support from the Law Centre. I had two hearings. On both occasions, my solicitor went in with me to support me. Even after my results, which I was not satisfied with, my solicitor helped me arrange for an appeal. The process was so smooth, and knowing you had someone for support was relieving. The Law Centre is a people-centred service, and it makes it easy for you to tell your story at ease.”
Speaking about the education supports, Happiness said, “The lady in the (IRC) Education department referred me to the UCD mature student programme and that was the beginning of my educational journey. I had loads of financial support for resources and transportation.”
Happiness now has refugee status and will soon be reunited with her daughters. She is working as a Social Care worker while pursuing BSocSC Sociology and Social Policy at UCD, and dreams of helping women facing abuse worldwide.