How Stella Nyanzi is coping in Prison
Today being the last day of the week that Stella could entertain visitors, many people went to see her ahead of the even longer than usual weekend. Seated on a mat in her yellow dress, she seemed unfazed by her current reality; she told prison jokes and made us all realize that she is coping well.
Stella showed us a handcraft piece that’s in its initial stages- and told us a fellow inmate is teaching her how to sew. She shared her surprise at the amazing crafts talent exhibited by the women in Luzira prison and wondered why nobody is tapping into this space to help these women grow both their skills and revenues. To support them, she purchased a number of handmade mats, one of which she was seated on during our visit, several baskets and a shoulder bag.
We also asked her how she is coping. She put on her trademark smile and said, “I have two options-to either be sad and frustrated or make the most of my time here and I choose the latter. I am learning a lot from these women and focusing on only positivity right now.” When we posed this question, we anticipated that she would have reservations about spending Easter away from her family but her response re-assured us, and hopefully it can reassure you all, that she is strong and focusing on continuing to impart knowledge, one way or the other.
