Hi, my name is Ruth Marimo, I’m an Activist, Author and Business owner who is a proud Zimbabwean lesbian living in Nebraska, USA. Two weeks ago I came across the story of Gilfine Chikanyi, a 15 yr old trans girl living in a rural town called Karoi in my home country of Zimbabwe. Gilfine was being interviewed about what it’s like to be someone who is different, and had been expelled from school and labeled a satanist for their feminine self-expression. Gilfine also spoke about how they face threats of violence everyday from their community at large and cannot even leave their house alone.

My heart was broken for this child, who could easily have been me. I am partnering with transsmartzw.org in Zimbabwe to get Gilfine back in school and living safely because every child has a right to an education. After being in communication with Judith, Gilfine’s mother, I would like to raise funds to ensure Gilfine’s school fees is covered until they graduate high school, as well as the cost of books and uniforms. Gilfine’s mother also needs help to get back on her feet. I’m working with the director of Transsmart Trust; Gumisai Bonzo, to help me with all the logistics on the ground. Any extra funds will go to supporting the building of a ‘Safe House’ for Trans youths and adults in Harare, Zimbabwe. This will ensure that in the future children like Gilfine in Zimbabwe can have a safe place to go. This project is already in the works by Transsmart Trust.

Here are links to Gilfine and Judith’s interviews that made me want to do something. They are being interviewed in Shona, Zimbabwe’s main language, talking about their plight living in this small community in which they have been completely ostracized and are under constant threats of violence.

https://fb.watch/iPGTFUFdV0/

https://fb.watch/iPIp8TFfhg/

Thank you in advance for your support.