Esther T.
Esther’s journey to homeownership is a story of courage, resilience, and unwavering faith. Born and raised in Likasi, in the southern region of the Democratic Republic of Congo, Esther grew up in a large, dynamic household as one of 17 children. Seeking stability amidst the economic crisis and conflict in her home country, she and her husband moved to South Africa, where they built a life together and welcomed two children.
However, after a decade of marriage, Esther faced a turning point. Her marriage ended, leaving her alone in South Africa with two young children and limited resources. With her parents having passed away and her home country ravaged by war, returning to Congo was not an option. Meanwhile, the increasing xenophobic violence in South Africa weighed heavily on Easther’s mind and heart. She was determined to secure a better, safer future for her family.
Esther made the courageous decision to apply for the Diversity Visa program and was thrilled to be granted a U.S. green card. In 2019, she relocated to Tennessee with her children, ready to begin a new chapter and rebuild their lives from the ground up.
Today, Esther works as a Certified Nursing Assistant and is pursuing an LPN degree while working full-time. Caring for the elderly and vulnerable is more than just a job for Esther; it’s her passion.
She finds immense fulfillment in her work, knowing that she’s making a positive impact on the lives of others. Her son, Mike (18), is now in college at Columbia State, and her daughter, Believe (16), a high school junior, dreams of attending medical school. Together, they enjoy traveling and spending quality time with family movie nights, cherishing their close-knit bond.
“My prayer was for me to find a permanent place...a home for my kids and to build a hope for the future. Habitat is a huge blessing, helping me to reach my dream of having a home for my family. One of my future goals is to keep a healthy household and be a peaceful place for my small family,” Esther shared.
This home is a symbol of Esther’s strength, faith, and determination to create a brighter future for herself and her children.