Sima’s path from institution to finding a new home and family with her maternal aunt  

Sima’s journey has been marked by trials that many of us can hardly imagine. She was placed in an institution after being transferred from another institution for abandoned infants. Her biological mother couldn’t care for her properly, exposing Sima to various risks. 

Background  

As a result, the 6-year-old found it hard to connect with her biological mother. Her withdrawal started when her visits to her parents stopped, coinciding with her parents’ absence from the institution. Additionally, the alleged biological father, questioning his paternity, stopped visiting.  

Overcoming life hurdles 

Sima’s mother inconsistently appeared in her life due to her unhealthy relationship with the alleged biological father, leading to substance abuse and domestic violence. Leaving her maternal aunt Nozi as the steadfast beacon of love and stability in her life.  Nozi was always visiting Sima at the institution, ensuring that she was informed about everything. Eventually, she was given guardianship of the child with support from social workers and court approval. 

A new beginning  

Sima’s new journey with her maternal aunt was a moment filled with both love and boundless hope.  The thought of bringing her into a safe and nurturing home was a dream long held in her heart. “I was so excited when I found out that the child would be coming home to live with me, whenever I would visit her at the center, I would be so heartbroken, and she would cry every time I left. It was so difficult, so hearing that she was finally coming home gave me peace”, she said. 

Reunion with the child  

 Accustomed to the institution’s routine, she struggled to find her place in her new surroundings. Her aunt recalls the shy glances and trembling hands, signs of a child yearning for security. “She would also sit and shake consistently when she first arrived, she seemed scared, but I had to reassure her that she was safe and well cared for,” said the maternal aunt. “She does not trust easily; she experienced disruption at an early stage, instability in her life without any visible support from her mother. Her sense of belonging and stability were lost,” she added. 

Education became another milestone in Sima’s path to growth. Language barriers posed a challenge, but with determination and support, she began to thrive. “She’s come far; looking at her marks, they have improved, and I also help her with her homework every day,” her aunt shares proudly. 

Looking ahead 

For Nozi, having Sima back home represented more than family duty—it signified love and responsibility. Embracing her niece as her own, she provided a nurturing environment for her growth.  With consistent support from her family, the child is bound to become a confident little girl. 

*All the names are changed to protect identity