“I am 23 years old. I found out I was HIV+ during my second pregnancy. I was very sick and thin. The doctor advised me to go for a test and I tested positive.

“I spoke to my boyfriend and he went for a test. He was negative. And he left me. I was terrified. I wanted to commit suicide.

“I was referred to Wola Nani. I started going to Daisy’s support group. It helped me to understand HIV. She helped me so much. It was amazing to know I was not alone. There are other people this is happening to. I learnt all about Neviropine and how you don’t always pass on your virus to your baby. Being with other people, was good support for me. Wola Nani also gave me a food parcel.

“But it was hard. I was desperate. I already had one child and now 2 children. I was alone in a bad part of Khayelitsha. My boyfriend refused to pay for the baby.

“I got involved at Magpie through Wola Nani. I make light bulbs. It changed my life. I can’t say enough thank yous – they’ve changed my whole life, given me courage. My old house burnt down. With the money I made from the light bulbs I moved to my own house. It has running water and a toilet and I will have electricity in a month’s time. My whole life has really changed. The people at Magpie had a collection for me with their friends and at Rina’s church – they gave me cups, plates, glasses, everything. I have my own place and my own stuff.

“I now have a new boyfriend. I’m getting my life together.”

Rina observes the change; “It’s amazing to see the transformation in the women. They come to us introverted and gain so much confidence. Portia was so quiet but now she is happy. She braids her hair and is proud.”