Jessica had always been adventurous. After moving to a new city for a job, she enjoyed exploring its hidden corners and shortcuts. One evening after dinner with friends, she decided to take a shortcut home through a narrow alley. It wasn’t well-lit, but it was familiar to her. As she walked, she noticed two men loitering near the entrance of the alley. Her pulse quickened, but she told herself to remain calm and confident.

When she passed by them, they started to follow. Panic surged through her veins, but Jessica reminded herself of the self-defense classes she had taken after hearing about several incidents of harassment in the area. She quickened her pace, but so did they. When they made their move, one of them trying to block her path while the other grabbed her arm, Jessica didn’t freeze. She acted.

With precise movements, she elbowed the man gripping her, forcing him to release his hold, and used a palm strike to the other man’s face. The men didn’t expect her to fight back, and the shock on their faces gave her an opening. She shouted at the top of her lungs while backing away, fists still ready for another strike. The noise drew the attention of nearby residents, and before the men could react, they fled.

That night in the alley, Jessica’s bravery and training saved her from what could have been a far worse situation. She never saw herself as a fighter, but that moment proved otherwise. She realized the importance of being prepared for anything and began encouraging other women to take control of their safety, no matter how safe or dangerous their environment seemed.