My name is Sara A (name changed), and I am currently 28 years old. I was born in Debreberhan, a place known locally as Enmari. During my early years, I resided with my uncle, while my father lived in Addis Ababa. Eventually, I decided to move to Addis Ababa to live with my father and pursue my education.

However, due to disagreements, I left my father's home and began working at a restaurant as a waitress.

Unfortunately, while working at the restaurant, I faced financial difficulties and found myself unable to meet my financial obligations. Consequently, I made the difficult decision to enter the sex work industry to repay my debts.

Initially, I encountered various challenges in this line of work. Some clients insisted on engaging in unprotected sex, and at the time, I lacked knowledge about the proper use of condoms. I relied on the condoms provided by clients since I was unaware of where to obtain them myself.

During this period, I met and entered into a relationship with a boyfriend. However, my life took an unexpected turn when I discovered that I was pregnant.

Filled with fear, I left Addis Ababa and relocated to Metehara Town. Upon informing my boyfriend about the pregnancy, he reassured me that we would raise the child together, and I returned to live with him.

Amidst these circumstances, I was fortunate to have an opportunity to join the Nakat Charitable Association. They provided me with peer education training on SRHR and HIV. Through this training, I learned how to protect myself from sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and began undergoing HIV and STI testing every three months to monitor my health status.

My understanding of condom use was limited before, but after becoming aware and informed, I gained a significant amount of knowledge.

I made the decision to leave the sex work industry and ventured into my own business. Additionally, I am currently serving as a peer educator, sharing my experiences and knowledge with others.

I am grateful for the support and guidance I have received, and I am proud of the progress I have made in my life thus far.