From Survivor to Changemaker: The Mission of Solange Rising Star

Solange  grew up in Munyenge village in the Southwest region of Cameroon, where her  parents were cocoa farmers. She  was raped first at the age of 14 and again at the age of 16 and she was victimized by the community elders. 

Through education, She has  rebuilt her life. 

Her organisation “Solange Rising Star”,  is  determined to ensure that “rape” remains only a word in the dictionary and is   remembered as an action of a cruel past.

Solange’s Journey: From Tragedy to Triumph

Solange’s path was marred by hardship from an early age. She watched her mother suffer in a household that condoned violence, and she experienced betrayal by friends who set her up to be assaulted. Later, when left alone in a park, another act of violence left her pregnant. Yet instead of support, her community sought to silence her, forcing her into a two-year abusive relationship with her assailant. Through sheer determination, Solange eventually escaped, continued her education, and found solace in Music and a love for creative arts. Shows like America Got Talent and THE VOICE in Nigeria inspired her to start creating  platform for ethical social change for others to share their stories and shine, realizing that music, comedy, and storytelling could be powerful tools to advocate for change.

Founding Solange Rising Star

Determined to make a meaningful difference, Solange launched Solange Rising Star in 2022 , focusing on preventing gender based violence through creative arts and theatre where she gave platform to youths and children to advocate through music, comedy monologue and dance. The organization had a clear structure and vision stemmed from her personal profile when  passion led her to kanthari. A leadership and entrepreneurship program in India, where she is currently enhancing her skills to maximize the impact of SRS across rural communities. while in Kanthari she developed SRS’s flagship project,” Kacherkatan  which means butterfly in Bayangi my local language in Cameroon  resonates with the future I dream of for survivors: one of healing and transformation same as a butterfly emerges from and ugly chrysalis to a beautiful creature.  Our approach is survivor-led, ensuring that those who have lived through the trauma of rape and violence are given a platform to speak, lead, and shape the solutions .A heinous crime has marked our lives in ways we can never forget, but it has also united us, making us a family. No matter where we are — Africa, Asia, Europe, India — we are one. We are warriors, fighting for a world where no one else has to endure this pain”.

In Cameroon, cultural norms often protect perpetrators while survivors are left without support. Through Kacherkatan, our flagship project, we aim to tackle the deep-rooted cultural and structural issues that enable sexual violence, particularly in rural communities and war affected regions of Cameroon. The project is built around education, community engagement, and advocacy, focusing on prevention, protection, and empowerment. By combining support systems like survivor shelters, trauma counseling, and leadership training, we work to break the cycle of silence and impunity surrounding sexual violence.

Programs and Interventions

Kacherkatan  operates on a holistic model that addresses the needs of survivors, educates communities, and helps prevent future violence even in the most remote communities that finds it hard to seek comprehensive support to survivors . Key programs include:

  1. 24/7 Helpline – Instead of establishing a new helpline, SRS partners with existing, professionally trained organizations such as hospitals and crisis centers to provide essential support for survivors of sexual violence. Through this helpline, survivors have access to immediate resources, including safe housing, legal aid, and mental health support. By working with institutions already equipped to manage cases professionally, we ensure survivors receive timely, compassionate assistance while reinforcing a network of trusted services in the community.
  2. R.I.S.E. School Clubs (Respect, Inform, support, empower) A network of school clubs educates students on consent, self-defense, and support systems, nurturing a culture of respect and safety. The clubs engage students through monthly meetings, offering them the tools to recognize, prevent, and report sexual violence.
  3. S.T.A.R. Holiday Talent Program ( Support, Talent, and Advocacy for resilience)This annual talent competition encourages young people to use music, drama, and art to express their stand against sexual violence. Participants raise awareness about consent and receive school supplies and scholarships.
  4. The ECHO Rehabilitation (Empowerment, Change, Healing, Outreach) Prison Outreach program promotes both accountability and rehabilitation. Through bi-monthly prison visits, SRS works with incarcerated individuals to address the root causes of violence, providing education on the harm caused and fostering empathy, dialogue, and self-reflection. While SRS condemns the crime and supports full legal accountability, we recognize inmates’ fundamental right to dignity, as outlined in Article 3 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Our goal is to guide them toward positive change, enabling them to return to society as advocates against violence, helping build a safer, more peaceful community.
  5. S.U.R.E. Program (Survivor uplift for restoration and empowerment) – This program empowers survivors with leadership skills, confidence-building activities, and advocacy training. Graduates become local champions who support other survivors and advocate for justice in their communities.
  6. F.L.A.S.H. (Fostering Leaders Against Sexual Harm)Equipping community leaders with the tools and knowledge they need to effectively address and prevent sexual violence. By training local leaders in identifying risk factors, providing support to survivors, and raising community awareness, F.L.A.S.H seeks to foster a proactive approach to tackling sexual violence at the grassroots level. Through workshops, counseling techniques, and outreach strategies, this program enables leaders to build safer, more resilient communities and promote a culture of respect, support, and healing.

A Vision for Change

  In the long term, SRS aims to create a safe home for survivors, offering training to turn them into activists who will manage rape cases and raise awareness through theater and arts. The Survivor Training Program will offer a 3-month course for community leaders and theater advocates, focusing on advocacy, legal reforms, creative expression, and upcycling as therapy.

Why Solange?

As a survivor herself, Solange possesses an unmatched passion and understanding of the issues facing survivors of sexual violence. Her experiences fuel her determination, and her commitment to eradicating rape and promoting dignity and respect is evident in every initiative at SRS. She has built a program not only on her pain but also on a deep-seated belief in the power of resilience, compassion, and community.

Today, Solange stands not as a victim, but as a survivor of hope, dedicated to making “rape” a word remembered only in history. Through Solange Rising Star she invites all of us to join her in creating a world where safety, respect, and dignity are universal rights for every woman and child.

To support this project  and learn more about Solange’s journey and upcoming kanthari talk, stay tuned to our updates and become part of this movement for change.

.

Breaking the Silence: Why Survivor Voices Matter in Ending Violence

In a world where silence often surrounds the realities of sexual and domestic violence, the voices of survivors hold the power to transform lives and ignite change. At Solange Rising Star, we believe that these voices are not just important—they are essential to dismantling systems of abuse and fostering a society rooted in justice, empathy, and equality.

The Power of Speaking Out

Survivors of violence often face stigma, shame, and societal pressure to remain silent. This silence perpetuates cycles of abuse, leaving victims isolated and offenders unchallenged. By sharing their stories, survivors break through these barriers, inspiring others to come forward and sparking critical conversations about the injustices they’ve endured.

When survivors speak, they shed light on the realities of abuse, challenging harmful cultural norms and exposing gaps in systems meant to protect and empower individuals. These stories foster awareness, empathy, and understanding, which are the foundation for meaningful change.

Why Survivor Voices Matter

Survivors bring unique perspectives to the fight against violence. They understand the nuances of abuse, the challenges of seeking justice, and the strength required to rebuild. By involving survivors in advocacy, education, and policymaking, we ensure that solutions are grounded in lived experience and truly address the needs of those affected.

At Solange Rising Star, survivor voices shape every aspect of our work. From our S.U.R.E. program, which uplifts survivors into leadership roles, to Kacherkatan, our flagship initiative that symbolizes transformation and resilience, we prioritize survivor-led approaches to create lasting impact.

A Call to Action

Ending violence is not the responsibility of survivors alone—it requires collective action. We must listen to and amplify survivor voices, challenge harmful behaviors, and work together to create a safe and equitable world. Imagine a society where every survivor’s story leads to a ripple of change, transforming pain into power and silence into action.

To survivors: Your voice matters. By sharing your truth, you inspire hope and pave the way for others to rise. To allies: Stand with survivors. Speak out, educate yourself, and take action in your communities. Together, we can break the silence and end the violence.

Join the Movement

At Solange Rising Star, we are building a global network of survivors and advocates committed to this mission. Through innovative programs and collective efforts, we aim to transform lives and create a future free from violence. Join us in amplifying survivor voices and saying, “Enough is enough.”

Together, we can make a difference.


 Season’s Greetings from Solange Rising Stars 🌟

As we celebrate the joy and warmth of this festive season, we at Solange Rising Stars extend our heartfelt gratitude to all our sponsors, beneficiaries, and everyone who shares our mission of supporting survivors and advocating against sexual and domestic violence.

Your unwavering support and commitment inspire us to continue turning pain into power and building a world free from violence. Together, we are empowering survivors, creating safe spaces, and fostering hope for a brighter future.

Christmas Message:
May this season of love and giving bring peace, healing, and joy to you and your loved ones. Let’s continue to light the way for survivors, transforming challenges into opportunities for change.

New Year’s Message:
As we step into 2025, we look forward to new beginnings, stronger partnerships, and impactful actions. Join us in making the coming year one of empowerment, advocacy, and transformation. Together, we will soar higher as Rising Stars!

Become a part of our mission! Support survivors and advocate for justice.
📩 Reach us at info@solangerisingstar.org
🌐 Follow our journey on http://solangerisingstar.org

  Join our global survivors network group : https://chat.whatsapp.com/Kx2Ra6YPcrJGCzQ34ZWqwL

With love and gratitude,
 Solange Rising Stars
“Turning pain into power, one rising star at a time.”

We are unifying voices ,ending sexual violence.

Welcome  to “2025 Field Experience: Insights and Impact”

Breaking the Silence: A Call to Action Against Sexual and Domestic Violence

Yesterday, I had the privilege of meeting with the DD Social Affairs Meme, a dedicated government official who shares our mission to support survivors of sexual and domestic violence. Despite the overwhelming workload and limited staff, she tirelessly works to address the endless social problems that plague our communities.

Our conversation highlighted the urgent need for more social change makers in the NGO field. The statistics are staggering: family issues, marital problems, property disputes, theft, fighting, rape, GBV, and drug abuse are just a few of the many challenges that our communities face.

But there is hope. Our discussion also centered around the Echo Prison Rehabilitation Program, a case study that demonstrates the power of collective action in creating positive change. With the government’s support in protection, legal issues, and referrals, we are poised to make a real difference in the lives of survivors.

Our Mission

We seek justice for survivors of sexual and domestic violence, advocating for their mental and physical health, as well as their rights to speak out and be heard. We believe that healing, leadership, and empowerment are the keys to unlocking a brighter future for these brave individuals.

A Call to Action

This is a collective action that requires everyone’s involvement. We urge you to:

Report cases of sexual and domestic violence
Show empathy and understanding for the trauma that victims endure
Provide non-judgmental counseling and encouragement
Support our mission and join us in this fight for justice

Together, we can create a world where survivors are empowered to thrive. Let us break the silence and take action against sexual and domestic violence.

Get Involved

If you’re a funder, lover of our mission, or survivor, we invite you to join us in this critical work. Let’s work together to create a brighter future for al

Contact us to learn more about our work and how you can support us. +237681059384

“e are unifying voices ending sexual violence”

igniting Change:  Our Volunteer Team is Ready to Lead the Fight Against Violence!

 

Unifying Voices Ending sexual Violence

At Solange Rising Star (SRS), we believe that a strong, well-equipped team is the backbone of impactful change. We are proud to announce that our dedicated team of volunteers has successfully completed comprehensive training designed to align with our mission, vision, values, and philosophy.

Training Highlights:

Our training sessions covered:

  • Core Values: Unity, Resilience, Justice, and Empowerment were deeply explored to ensure our team embodies these principles in every action.
  • Brand Identity: From logo placement, color schemes, and typography to understanding our brand’s bold, empowering, and resilient attributes, our volunteers are now equipped to represent SRS with confidence.
  • Effective Communication: Skills in verbal and non-verbal communication, professional writing, and stakeholder engagement were developed to enhance outreach and advocacy.
  • Photography & Visual Storytelling: Recognizing the need for high-quality visuals, the team learned effective field photography techniques. However, we’ve identified the need for a better camera phone to capture clear and impactful moments.
  • Personal & Team Values Alignment: Team members reflected on their personal values, ensuring alignment with SRS’s principles, fostering a conflict-free and cohesive work environment.
  • Conflict Management & Team Synergy: Through open discussions about personal likes and dislikes, the team has built a foundation for understanding and collaboration, minimizing potential misunderstandings.

Meet Our Team: Our team is composed of three passionate women, our Program Coordinator, and myself—all from medical backgrounds ranging from assistant nurses to state-registered nurses. Their experience in healthcare and social work has naturally aligned with SRS’s core principles, especially regarding ethics, confidentiality, and environmental consciousness.

Moving Forward: With this comprehensive training, our team is fully prepared to combat sexual and domestic violence and advocate for survivors through SRS’s core interventions. We are ready to implement our mission-driven projects, raise awareness, and create lasting change in our communities.

We invite our supporters to join us in this journey. Your continued encouragement and support empower us to rise stronger and work harder every day.

Stay connected with us as we take bold steps to end violence and build a community rooted in unity, resilience, and empowerment.

#SolangeRisingStar #Empowerment #Unity #Resilience #EndViolence #BoldLeadership #CommunityChange #Advocacy #Teamwork #SocialImpact # kanthari # LIDIT# MEPEWIDA #REWOCAM #LIMPS# Vilage Solar# ADIKO# Okiri #swapnisthan# readers sanctuary#CEEDECO#Propolis #Swiss Foundation# Fair Shea #Germany foundation# Patrick &Prisca Sommer# Monique &Eric #kanthari 2024#

kanthari eco- friendly campus

A serene eco-friendly campus surrounded by lush greenery, where sustainability thrives—no plastic in sight, just nature in perfect harmony.”

our visit to  Laure group 

we are trained to respect the environment by the house keeping team.

 

FROM CHANGEMAKER TO ECO-WARRIOR: MY KANTHARI JOURNEY TOWARDS SUSTAINABLE IMPACT

Kanthari Institute for Changemakers in India is truly a unique and inspiring place. Their eco-friendly campus is a perfect blend of nature and innovation, with buildings designed to harmonize with the environment. From sustainable materials to energy-efficient practices, Kanthari is dedicated to minimizing its carbon footprint and fostering a culture of environmental responsibility.
My journey with Kanthari has profoundly influenced my perspective on sustainability. The institute’s commitment to eco-consciousness has reshaped my mindset, inspiring me to integrate sustainability into every aspect of my life and projects.
Let me share a story that highlights this transformation. When I returned to Cameroon, I spent my first night at the Marriott Hotel in Douala, booked by Kanthari Switzerland. I was thrilled to enjoy my first home-cooked meal, even though it was quite expensive and lacked the quality I had anticipated. Nonetheless, I was just happy to have a taste of home.
Due to the ongoing socio-political crisis in the Anglophone regions of Cameroon, which has persisted since 2016, travel to my hometown was not possible on Mondays. So, I stayed overnight in Douala, where I decided to visit a nearby beauty salon to get my hair done. In my community, traveling abroad and returning with local hairstyles, like the ones I embraced at Kanthari, often raises questions. People might assume I was repatriated because they don’t understand the cultural and practical choices I made during my time in India.
The next morning, on my way to Kumba, we stopped at Mile 17 Park in Buea, the capital city of the South West region. While waiting, I couldn’t resist buying “Kwacoco,” a beloved local dish, from the many street vendors swarming the bus. It was served in a plastic wrapper, and once I finished eating, I carefully placed the plastic in a corner of my handbag.
An 18-year-old girl sitting next to me noticed and said, “Aunty, what are you doing? Throw the plastic outside!” I replied, “No!” She asked why, and I explained, “Where I come from, we are trained to respect the environment.” She laughed and said, “Look around, plastic is everywhere! What difference will it make?” I responded, “It’s about the mindset and values. If everyone starts thinking like me, the environment will gradually become cleaner.”
At Kanthari, I attended impactful seminars on climate change, environmental hazards, and eco-friendly solutions. Kanthari made us have sessions with Journeyman International (JMI), a US-based non-profit that provides building designs and construction services. We also traveled all the way to Laure Group, well-known in Kerala, India, for constructing eco-friendly buildings. Additionally, we attended seminars at Lions Gate through the Trivandrum Management Association, where prominent activists spoke about climate change and global warming. These experiences inspired me to incorporate eco-friendly designs into my project site. Kanthari transformed my thinking from that of the 18-year-old girl on the bus to a responsible citizen with a deep commitment to environmental preservation.
Beyond the classroom, my Indian roommate played a significant role in shaping my eco-consciousness. She specializes in animal rescue and environmental preservation, and her love for nature is truly inspiring. Our room was often home to sick animals like snakes and tortoises, and she would collect leaves of various shapes and colors, admiring the beauty of nature. Through her, I learned to appreciate the delicate balance of our ecosystem.
Today, I am not just a social change maker but also a passionate environmental activist. Every project I undertake will incorporate elements of environmental conservation because sustainability is not just a choice; it is a way of life. We have projects like the RISE School Club, where we educate students on respect, consent, and peer support in the fight against rape. We don’t stop there; we incorporate environmental hygiene and proper waste segregation, shaping students to become responsible citizens who are also environmentally conscious. Additionally, we incorporate cassava farming to empower rural survivors of sexual or domestic violence. Our farming methods  shall be eco-friendly no use of chemicals, no burning of bush, in order to preserve the microorganisms that give soil its nutrients.
We call for support from donors, goodwill individuals, environmental activists, and government bodies to support our initiatives.
Kanthari’s eco-friendly approach has left an indelible mark on me, and I am committed to passing on this mindset to my community. Together, we can create a world where every action contributes to a greener and more sustainable future.
#Meahlvanam # Kanthari # REWOCAM #RADA #LIDIT # Tech4Rural #JourneymanInternational #LaureGroup # LionsGate # TrivandrumManagementAssociation

Kicking Off R.I.S.E: A Step Towards a Safer Future

Last Wednesday, 12/02/2025 we proudly launched our R.I.S.E (Respect, Inform, Support, and Empowerment) program in collaboration with Zion Health Foundation a partnership dedicated to educating our youth on gender-based violence (GBV) and healthy living. Our team arrived 30 minutes early at Living Water Comprehensive College in Kumba, located around the Alaska Street Junction and home to over 400 students. We set up a vibrant space where every voice could be heard.

The Day at a Glance

  • Introduction:
    Our program was inaugurated by Mr. Lucien, our dedicated coordinator, who set the tone for an impactful session in just two minutes.
  • Session 1 – GBV, SRHR, and Rape Awareness (18 minutes):
    CEO of Zion Health Foundation, Mr. Nji Jackson, delivered an eye-opening presentation on GBV, Sexual and Reproductive Health Rights (SRHR), and rape awareness. His message not only informed but also empowered the students to recognize and challenge harmful behaviors.
  • Session 2 – Respect, Consent, and Peer Support (20 minutes):
    Madam Solange Ndip from Solange Rising Stars (SRS) captivated the audience with her insights on respect, the importance of consent, and the power of peer support. Her presentation resonated deeply, emphasizing how mutual respect lays the foundation for safe, inclusive communities.
  • Session 3 – Positive Masculinity (20 minutes):
    Backed by Zion Health Foundation, Mr. Wam Joel highlighted the transformative role of positive masculinity in preventing GBV. His discussion encouraged a balanced understanding of strength and empathy, urging young men to become allies in the fight against violence.

During breaks, Wandie and our enthusiastic volunteers circulated flyers with further details and next steps, ensuring that every student had the information needed to continue the conversation beyond the event.

A Moment of Community Connection

Our program didn’t just stop at presentations. Our technique was simple yet effective: we engaged with every student by talking to the entire student body, then provided an open invitation for those interested to join the club.

With some extra time granted, we opened up a club formation session. Many students eagerly registered for the newly named Respect Revolution Club (RRC) under the R.I.S.E program of SRS, while others expressed a thoughtful desire to consult with their parents first a prove to the diverse perspectives within our community.

One standout moment was when our club leader took the microphone, radiating enthusiasm and promising to support her peers in championing a safer school environment. We also had the opportunity to interview several students who shared how much they had learned and how empowered they felt to be a part of this change.

Looking Ahead this 2025

Our vision is ambitious and clear. In 2025, we aim to extend our reach to four schools, establishing clubs with at least 30 dedicated members each. These clubs will meet bi-weekly, where our junior advocates against rape will share ideas, debate strategies, and learn from one another all driving us closer to a world free from abuse.

Join the Movement

At Solange Rising Stars, we believe in unifying voices to end sexual violence. We are determined to transform attitudes and create a future where every individual is empowered, respected, and safe. If you share our vision, we invite you to join us in this journey whether as an advocate, volunteer, or partner.

For more details, check out our full program document or visit our website at solangerisingstar.org. Together, let’s build a community where respect and empowerment are at the core of every relationship.

We are unifying voices to end sexual violence one school, one club, one life at a time.

Get Involved & Spread the Word:

#KANTHARI #REWOCAM #LIDIT # ZHF# JoinUs #MoreWithUs #RisingStars #EndGBV #RespectRevolution

A Fruitful Encounter at the Humaintarian Coordination Meeting

When the invitation arrived for the humanitarian coordination meeting in Buea, I knew this was an opportunity we couldn’t afford to miss. Despite the short notice and my already packed schedule, my colleague Mr Nji from ZHF Kumba and I quickly decided that we had to be present. Without hesitation, I made the journey ahead of him, determined to ensure our representation .

Stepping into Mountain Hotel, I was struck by the grandeur of the space, with its many halls and vibrant atmosphere. I spotted familiar faces Mr. Kelechi, Mr. Ayamba, and other dedicated humanitarian actors with whom I had shared past engagements. Their presence reassured me; I was exactly where I needed to be. Amazingly without communication Mr Nji also came directly to the same hall.

Taking a seat in the beautifully decorated hall, I noticed the large banner on the wall: “Comprehensive Needs Assessment, Results Presentation, Data Validation, and Collaboration Planning for Strengthening Humanitarian WASH Response in NW/SW Regions.” Though it wasn’t the specific meeting I had come for, I quickly realized that the discussions aligned perfectly with my work. The session focused on disability-friendly buildings in schools and hospitals, gender balance in WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) facilities, and the urgent need for inclusive sanitation.

I was captivated. As visuals of real-life conditions were displayed, it hit me this was exactly the kind of knowledge I needed! Working with women with disabilities who have faced sexual and domestic violence, I have often thought about how to create safe, accessible spaces for them. Learning about eco-friendly and disability-inclusive infrastructure was a revelation, directly answering some of the challenges I have been trying to solve in my work.

Taking the Lead

The session took a practical turn when we were divided into three groups for a workshop. I found myself in Group 2, where I was nominated as the leader, with Mr. Tanda from EPDA Limbe as the secretary. Initially, a mayor was suggested for the presidency, but I firmly but respectfully objected gender balance matters, and women’s voices must be heard! To my delight, the room embraced my stance, and I was officially nominated.

Leading the group, I embraced the confidence instilled in me by Kanthari, where we are taught to be fearless catalysts for change. My mentor, Sabriye, always reminded us that we are capable of achieving greatness, just like the fiery Kanthari chili small but powerful.

Together, our team engaged in deep discussions, brainstorming innovative solutions and sharing insights from our diverse experiences. Our dedicated secretary, Mr. Tanda, presented our final recommendations with clarity and precision.

A Rewarding Outcome

As the meeting concluded, I was filled with immense gratitude. Not only had I learned valuable lessons on disability-friendly WASH infrastructure, gender-sensitive sanitation, and eco-friendly facilities, but I had also become a recognized partner and WASH practitioner. This was an unexpected but deeply rewarding milestone.

I left the event feeling empowered, inspired, and committed to integrating these learnings into Solange Rising Star and my community work. This experience reinforced a truth I hold dear when we step out of our comfort zones and embrace new opportunities, we open doors to greater impact.

This is just the beginning. I pledge to uphold the principles of WASH, advocate for inclusive sanitation, and implement eco-friendly solutions that will transform lives.

Onward and upward together, we rise, and unifying  voices ending sexual violence.