For six months, 11 young people in Shinoyi–Shikomari–Esumeiya Ward, Navakholo Sub-County, chose to take a step toward a more secure and self-reliant future.
Like many young people in their communities, they faced limited opportunities to access practical skills and build sustainable livelihoods. For some, the challenge was not a lack of ambition, but a lack of opportunities to acquire the skills needed to turn their potential into income.
Through the Community-Based Training (CBT) initiative under the SHGA Project, implemented by Khutirane Community-Led Action (CLA) with support from WWANC and Kindernothilfe, these young people were given an opportunity to learn practical, marketable skills within their community.
They trained in areas aligned with local livelihood opportunities:
- 4 youths trained in tailoring
- 6 youths trained in salon and beauty
- 1 youth trained in carpentry
Later, that investment in skills reached an important milestone.
The first cohort of CBT beneficiaries graduated, marking a significant step in their journey toward economic independence. The graduation also recognized three trainers, who received certificates of appreciation for their dedication, guidance and contribution to the success of the programme.
For members of Khutirane CLA, the occasion was more than a graduation. Parents and community members came together to celebrate young people who are now better equipped to create opportunities for themselves and contribute to their families and communities.
The community also expressed appreciation to WWANC and Kindernothilfe, whose support has helped create pathways for young people to acquire practical skills and build more sustainable livelihoods.
From needles and fabric, to beauty tools and carpentry equipment, these 11 young people have taken their first steps from learning to livelihood.
They came to learn a skill. They leave with the possibility of building a future.
This is more than a graduation. It is the beginning of a journey toward self-reliance, dignity and opportunity.
