In partnership with Brighter Future Children Rescue Center in Buchanan, SOS Children’s Villages in Liberia provided life-skills training for 25 caregivers to enhance resilient livelihood in catering to their families.  The economic pressure on many families is acute than ever, creating less and less income for families to continue their children education and meet other needs.

In 2023 SOS Children’s Villages in Liberia supported 25 families to enroll in a life skills training program at Conduit of Potentials (COPs) in Paynesville, Monrovia [another program location]. Through the skills training program, caregivers were empowered with skills needed to start their own businesses in tailoring, soap making, and pastry production, amongst others.

Cecelia, a mother of five, shared her experience with great pride: “Before this training, I had no idea about pastries and baking, and life has been a constant struggle. “With these new skills, I am confident, that I can start a new business that will help me and my children.”

In addition to personal growth, the program has also strengthened social bonds. Cecelia noted “The training brought us together, and now, we’re not just going to work individually — we’re going to support each other as a community sharing ideas.”

Samuel Menyon, a trainer at the Brighter Future Children Rescue Center, and a Program Supervisor thanked Cecelia for her courage and determination. “Cecelia demonstrated courage and determination. She was very responsive to the training; she arrived early and stayed late. She was eager to learn, and asked lots of questions”, Mr. Menyon explains.

Mr. Menyon urged the graduates to think outside the box. “Be creative, and start your own initiatives within your communities. The new skills learned should provide hope for a brighter future for you and your families,” says Menyon.

The impact of the training extended beyond economic empowerment. It has fostered a renewed sense of confidence and purpose among the caregivers. Musu, another participant who also acquired skills in Pastry, expressed her gratitude, saying, “This program has transformed my life in ways I never imagined. I used to feel hopeless, but now I wake up daily with a sense of direction.  I’m proud of what I’ve achieved and I’m excited for what the future holds,” Musu added.

SOS Children’s Villages in Liberia is working with over 98 families and several direct and indirect beneficiaries in Buchanan.