Alma's Journey: From Vulnerability to Independence
From a very young age, Alma’s life was marked by great hardships. After her father’s death, she lived with her mother and her two younger siblings. At home, she endured constant physical and verbal abuse, as well as neglect, and was even deprived of food.
Alma took on responsibilities far beyond her years. Every morning, she would get up early—not to go to school, but to prepare and sell plantain fries at the market. Afterward, she would help her mother at the bar. Every night, Alma would fall asleep consumed by fear, only to wake up the next day with a lingering sense of anxiety, sadness, and uncertainty about her future.
Despite this harsh reality, Alma found the strength to make a courageous decision and asked for help. Guided by a family friend, she sought refuge at Casa Alianza Honduras, where, at the Querubines home, she found a safe haven to begin a new chapter in her life.
At the Querubines residence—the Casa Alianza Honduras facility dedicated to young girls who are victims of human trafficking—Alma received comprehensive care that included safety, healthy nutrition, physical and mental health care, emotional support, education, and family reintegration. Through therapeutic support and relaxation techniques, Alma learned to manage her anxiety, regain her self-confidence, and look forward to a better future.
Shy and reserved at first, Alma gradually adapted to the dynamics of the home, participating in all activities with dedication and a willingness to contribute.
As she settled in, the staff noticed that Alma was suffering from severe back pain due to the physical strain she had endured for years from carrying heavy objects. They referred her to a local clinic so she could receive specialized medical care and begin physical therapy, with the goal of improving her physical health and relieving her pain.
Education became a fundamental part of Alma’s transformation. She resumed her studies and earned her high school diploma with a specialization in arts and sciences. Later, she passed the entrance exam for the National Autonomous University of Honduras, where she is currently studying law.
While completing her high school education, Alma also underwent vocational training in cooking and cosmetology, which strengthened her skills and opened up new opportunities for her personal development, independence, and financial independence.
As part of her journey toward self-reliance, Casa Alianza Honduras provided Alma with startup capital in 2025 so she could launch her own business in the beauty industry. Her services include facial hair removal and eyebrow care. Her business is not only a source of income but also a symbol of her independence, motivation, and determination.
Alma maintains close contact with her aunt and godmother through phone calls and visits, thereby strengthening bonds that contribute to her emotional well-being. Today, she sees herself as a more self-assured young woman, determined to achieve her goals and grateful for the opportunities she has been given. She is deeply grateful to Casa Alianza Honduras for providing her with protection and support, and for helping her develop the confidence to believe in herself and her potential.
