In the Philippines, the story of 18-year-old Mayumi reveals the reality faced by thousands of children living with poverty, instability, and invisible violence. In her community, everything depends on street vending: when it rains, the streets empty, income plummets—and food runs out. “When it rains, we can’t sell… We have nothing to eat,” she says.
Under these conditions, girls are particularly vulnerable. Social pressure often leads to early marriage, seen as a survival strategy in the face of poverty. At 18, Mayumi still hears: “You’re too old… No one will want you.”
This violence—silent but destructive—threatens childhood, education, and the future. That is why Asmae places protection at the heart of its work: without protection, there is no learning, no trust, and no lasting peace.
Our teams work every day to prevent violence:
- training educators,
- raising awareness among parents,
- identifying at-risk situations,
- combating child marriage.
Every young girl protected is a life transformed.
Protection also means giving back a future: academic support, safe spaces, leadership activities. Thanks to this support, Mayumi says today: “I know I have the right to say no.” And she now dreams of becoming a teacher.
Through her, Asmae’s entire vision is expressed: taking action so that every child is protected, educated, and recognized as an active participant in their own life. Because protecting a young girl means preparing for the peace of tomorrow.
Together, we can go even further.