At 58, Judith had long dreamed of taking on a meaningful role in her community in the northeastern region of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Having attended school only through second grade, however, she struggled to read and write and felt that her limited education held her back.

That all began to change when she joined a Five Talents literacy group.

After a year in the program, Judith had made remarkable progress. She became a confident reader and learned to write well. But her newfound skills didn't just change what she could do — they opened the door to a new opportunity.

Judith was passionate about reaching and encouraging others in her community. Recognizing her abilities and determination, combined with her new literacy skills, a local medical team hired her as a member of their community outreach team.

For Judith, that meant not only a new job that engages her skills and passions, but also a chance to serve her community at a critical time. By sharing important health information with members of her community, Judith has been part of a major effort to reduce the spread of disease, including the Ebola outbreak that the DRC has faced this year. Her work has helped keep members of her community in Aru safe.

Literacy empowered Judith to serve when she was needed most. Today, Judith wants other women to discover what is possible for them too. Judith encourages women who struggle with reading and writing to join a literacy group in their community and gain skills that can open new doors for their future.