By Joseph K.B Morison
In an act that restored hope and dignity on young mothers, the Movement for Education and Advocacy Network Sierra Leone (MEAN-SL) has graduated 21 young mothers who completed vocational training programs in tailoring, hairdressing and auto mechanics in Bo.
The ceremony took place at the Kate McGrath Great Hall, along the New Koribondo Highway in Bo City on Saturday, October 25. Musa Konneh, Executive Director of MEAN-SL, recalled that his organization was established in 2018, shortly after the Ebola epidemic, with a mission to support young mothers through skill acquisition, education, and child welfare programs.
“Our vision is to empower young mothers who have been abandoned, either by their husbands or families so they can become self-reliant and confident contributors to society,” Mr. Konneh said in a statement at the graduation ceremony. He explained that beyond training, MEAN-SL provides start-up kits and job placement to its graduates to ensure sustainability and accountability.
“We don’t just train and let go. We monitor how our graduates are using the tools and ensure they are applied toward meaningful livelihoods,” he added.
Mr. Konneh further revealed that the organization continues to engage graduates through its Community Girls Network, a mentorship platform that supports other girls in rural communities who wish to acquire similar skills.
Yusuf B. Daramy, Protection Officer at the Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs, commended MEAN-SL for its commitment to empowering vulnerable young women across the country. He described skills training as a “pathway to self-reliance and middle-level manpower development,” stressing that such initiatives reduce dependency and create employment opportunities.
“The Ministry is proud of this initiative. However, we urge beneficiaries to make proper use of the equipment provided,” he warned. “We do not want to see any of you on the streets after receiving this great opportunity.”
One of the graduates, Hawa Marouf, from the hairdressing program, shared an emotional testimony about her journey from hardship to hope.
“My boyfriend abandoned me when I got pregnant, and I had no one to support me. I used to sell cassava leaves just to feed my child,” she recounted. “But today, through MEAN-SL, I have learned a skill and received my start-up kit. I am proud of who I have become”.
Another graduate, Binta Kamara, from the tailoring program, said her marriage was once strained because she was financially dependent on her husband.
“Before joining the program, my husband was the only provider in our home. Today, I can sew both men’s and women’s clothes and support my family financially. My husband is now proud of me,” she narrated with a smile.
her marital relationship by making her financially independent of her husband.
Image, Joseph K.B Morison, ManoReporters.
Speaking on behalf of the parents of the beneficiaries, Madam Theresa Musa thanked MEAN-SL for transforming the lives of their children. She noted that many of the young mothers had been rejected by their families due to unplanned pregnancies, but now they are respected members of society.
“MEAN-SL is a mother to all children and young mothers. These skills have restored the dignity of our daughters,” Madam Musa said.
The event concluded with the presentation of certificates and start-up kits to all 21 graduates, accompanied by a joyous celebration from parents, community members, and partner organizations.
