We partner with the US Peace Corps Volunteers in our community to empower a vulnerable population of girls who are teenage mothers and living in rural poor areas. This project elevates their status and improves the condition for these underserved girls and young women in Cameroon by providing training on skills like writing a business plan and making goods to sell in the market: tofu, soy milk, and paperbead jewelry. Participants in our weekend training sessions become part of a support network.
Cameroonian girls live in a world of high unemployment, teenage pregnancy, HIV/AIDS rates, and crime rates resulting from poverty and corruption. Without guidance and education, a child's potential for a future full of options is limited. The economic situation is dire for many girls and young women and they are often reduced to seek and engage in less-than-desirable activities to generate income. This will change that.
The purpose of this series of workshops is to engage these girls in positive, educational activities to prevent idleness, reduce negative social behaviors, promote healthy physical activity, and provide opportunities for economic development. The 70 girls who are planning to and continue to participate will generate income for themselves and their family. This will improve their standing in the home and in society-at-large.
With support of our donors, these workshops are a platform to empower girls and young women and teach them critical skills which will improve the whole community! Girls who participate in this program will gain improved confidence, knowledge of reproductive health and local resources for young women, and a greater understanding of the future role of women in society. They will gain transferable skills in business and artisan-ship that can lead to more opportunities in the future!
