Where confidence begins

This week, our team are busy preparing for the graduation of 25 young mothers from our 18-month life skills programme. So, it felt like the perfect time to tell you more about what these sessions actually involve, and why they matter so much in our project. 

Firstly, try to imagine being a young mother - without a support network around you, without friends who understand what you're going through, without anyone to teach you how to care for your baby, manage a relationship, or simply believe in yourself again. Who would you turn to? Where would you learn what you need to know?

That’s where our life skills sessions come in. When a young mother joins the project, she becomes part of a cohort of around 20-25 girls, and she stays with that same group throughout her time with us. Every week, on a set day, they come together, babies in tow if needed, for 2-3 hours. At each session they cover a different topic: sexual and reproductive health, self-care, confidence, managing relationships, baby care, and more. It's a space to learn, but also a space to talk - to share what's going on for them, to be listened to. At the end of each session, they eat and drink together.

‘These sessions have helped me to become bold. I can speak for myself now, I have confidence.’ Mary.

Over 18 months, the young mothers stop being a group of strangers and become something closer to sisters. They build friendships and a peer support network that, for many, is the first one they've ever had.

The sessions start several months before they begin school or vocational training, giving them time to get to know each other, and also to build the habits they’ll need to succeed once they start learning: showing up on time, attending regularly, having the confidence to speak and to listen. 

Mariatu, our Country Manager, says: ‘The life skills programme is more than a series of training sessions, it's a safe and empowering space where young mothers rebuild their confidence, gain practical knowledge and discover their potential. Watching them overcome challenges, support one another, and graduate with renewed hope is incredibly rewarding.’

Through group discussions, role plays and honest conversation, we've watched this cohort grow from a room of shy strangers into a group who encourage and celebrate one another without judgement.

The transformations are remarkable. Social worker Amie, recalls meeting young mother Lucy, who barely spoke during the first few weeks. ‘By the end of our time together, she was confidently sharing her opinions and even leading discussions herself,’ Amie says.

We'll mark their graduation with a small ceremony alongside their parents and caregivers next week. But it isn't goodbye- the group will keep meeting at our monthly Circle of Confidence gatherings, and continue their studies alongside it.

Please join us in celebrating the amazing achievements of our young mothers, who continue to inspire us every day 👏