Gender Equality Ghana Project #66442

Young Mothers Empowerment Program, YMEP

by Somnia Osbrain Foundation LBG

Project Report | Jun 6, 2025
From Vulnerability to Vision: Patience's Journey

By Osborn Martin Gatugbe | Chief Director

Patience's graduation

In a small rural village in the Volta Region of Ghana, the story of Patience begins. Though not a teenage mother herself, Patience was at high risk of early pregnancy after completing Senior High School, like many other young girls in her community. The fear was real, and opportunities were scarce. But her story changed when the Somnia Osbrain Foundation met her during our Find-Her Outreach Initiative. She happens to be a past student of the Chief Director of the Somnia Osbrain Foundation.

We visited her home and sat with her parents to understand her aspirations. Patience spoke softly but with conviction—she wanted to become a fashion designer. That moment marked the beginning of a transformational journey.

Through the support of donors and our empowerment model, Patience was enrolled in a two-year intensive skills training program at Feminine Star Africa Skills Training Center in Hohoe. With dedication, she mastered design, tailoring, and garment construction. Her progress was remarkable—each stitch not only honed her skill but also rewrote her future.

Today, Patience is more than just a graduate—she is a leader and mentor. She is now poised to train other young mothers under our After-School Fashion Design and Technology Program, particularly in Bakpe and other marginalized communities in the Ho West District. Her journey from risk to resilience exemplifies the power of timely intervention, skill development, and belief in young women’s potential.

Your support made this possible. Through your donations, Patience’s dream has turned into a mission to empower others. Thank you for being part of her journey.

Patience doing practical

Patience graduated with her colleagues

Patience's collage of beautiful dresses designs

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From Vulnerability to Vision: Patience's Journey (PDF)

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Dec 27, 2024
Young Mothers Empowerment Program: Rose's Story of Transformation

By Osborn Martin Gatugbe | Chief Director

First Meeting with Rose

In 2021, Rose (not her real name) faced an uncertain future, grappling with life-changing decisions. She dreamed of becoming a fashion designer but struggled with the societal pressures and challenges that often lead young girls astray. Recognizing her determination and passion, Somnia Osbrain Foundation stepped in to support her through the Young Mothers Empowerment Program.

This program provided Rose with mentorship, financial assistance, and access to educational resources, empowering her to stay in school and pursue her dreams. With this support, Rose completed her Senior High education this year. She is now enrolled in a three-month internship at Garment Construction Technology, where she is acquiring hands-on experience to build her career in fashion design.

Rose’s journey exemplifies the transformative power of the Young Mothers Empowerment Program. Her accomplishments have already inspired other young mothers in the program, showing them that overcoming challenges and creating a brighter future is possible. Once she completes her internship, Rose will take on a leadership role as a mentor for children in the After-School Fashion Design and Technology Program, continuing the cycle of empowerment.

Besides Rose, the Young Mothers Empowerment Program has supported 4 additional young mothers, providing them with vocational training, access to education, and psychosocial support. These efforts aim to equip them with the skills and confidence to break free from cycles of poverty and dependence.

These achievements would not have been possible without your generosity and belief in our vision. Thank you for standing with us on this journey. While we celebrate these milestones, there is still much work to be done. We invite you to stay engaged with our progress and participate in our upcoming campaigns and community events that will further our cause.

Meet Rose in School

Children under the After-school fashion program

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