When women are empowered, entire communities thrive. But for many young women, especially single mothers, access to career guidance, opportunity, and encouragement is often out of reach. That’s why at Friends Career Center (FCC), we launched Project EmpowerHer: to ignite hope, build confidence, and create a safe, supportive space for young women to reclaim their dreams and shape their futures.
This project is generously funded by the Simmons Grant (Quakers in Britain) and the African Great Lakes Peace Trust.
Empowerment in Action
The first EmpowerHer session brought together eleven young single mothers and girls who have received full scholarships to pursue vocational training at Mwanashuti Vocational Training Center. Over the next year, FCC will support them not only in successfully completing their programs, but also in launching their careers, whether through employment or entrepreneurship.
Francine Muhawenimana, a passionate community leader, facilitated a powerful session on self-confidence, resilience, and knowing one’s rights. Through open conversations, the participants reflected on their challenges and began to envision new possibilities.
“You’re not just surviving,” Francine reminded them. “You’re building something powerful, for yourselves and your children.”
Francine Muhawenimana facilitating a session on self-development
Inspiration That Hits Home
Jacky, a former FCC participant and graduate of Mwanashuti Vocational Training Center and now Founder of BEZA Protocol & Services, shared her inspiring journey. With the support of FCC and dedicated mentorship, she was able to launch her own business and build a better future for herself. Her advice to the group was clear and empowering:
- Study what you love
- Support one another
- Never give up
Jacky’s story reminded everyone in the room that transformation is not just a dream, it’s already in motion.
Jacky, former FCC scholarship recipient sharing her experience
How You Can Join Us
Project EmpowerHer is just getting started, and we need your support to keep it going. Whether it’s through mentorship, partnerships, or donations, you can help us uplift more young women on their path to success.
Reach out to us at [email protected] to get involved.
Together, we can turn hope into action and dreams into reality.
