When Sharon arrived at Palabek Refugee Settlement, she was carrying more than her belongings. She was carrying the weight of conflict, displacement, and loss—memories that sat close to the surface and could flare without warning. In South Sudan, hardship had taught her to meet stress with anger. Over time, sharp words and aggressive reactions began to feel “normal,” even when they left her feeling drained and disconnected from the people she loved.
Her turning point came when she joined THRIVEGulu’s 12-week Dance+Therapy program. In a safe, supportive group, Sharon was given space to reflect, move, and express what had been building inside her. Session by session, she began to see that anger did not have to define her future. She learned new ways to calm her body and mind, including deep breathing and a personal affirmation she repeats to herself: “Together I can overcome.”
These simple practices have strengthened her ability to manage stress, regulate her emotions, and respond to challenges with more patience and clarity. The change has touched her home life too—today, Sharon builds connection and joy by dancing with her children.
