Youth Action International (YAI) launched the Center for Women’s Empowerment in 2006, and since then, it has transformed the lives of thousands of women, providing them with the skills and support needed to achieve financial independence. Empowering women is at the core of our mission, and through this program, we are helping to build stronger, more resilient communities in Liberia and Sierra Leone.
Participants in our program are primarily women from the poorest communities, including rural areas and urban slums, where opportunities are scarce, and poverty is widespread. Many of these women have had little to no formal education, leaving them without the business skills needed to secure stable employment. For many, the only option to make ends meet has been commercial sex work, a dangerous path that exposes them to violence, exploitation, severe health risks, and social stigma, further marginalizing them in their communities.
Despite these overwhelming challenges, these women remain hopeful and resilient, driven by a deep desire to change their lives and the lives of their children. They seek opportunities to learn new skills, start businesses, and achieve financial independence. This is where the Center for Women’s Empowerment steps in, providing the tools, training, and support necessary to turn their dreams into reality.
Our vocational training programs are designed to equip women with marketable skills that are in high demand. Whether it’s tailoring, hairdressing, or small-scale entrepreneurship, these skills empower women to start their own businesses or find stable employment. But we don’t stop there. Understanding that access to capital is critical, we also offer microloans to help women turn their skills into sustainable livelihoods. These loans are designed to be accessible and come with flexible repayment options, allowing women to grow their businesses without the burden of unmanageable debt.
We offer a range of hands-on training courses that are tailored to meet the needs of the local job market and the personal aspirations of the women we serve. Our training programs include:
Martha
In addition to vocational training, the Center for Women’s Empowerment hosts workshops that focus on entrepreneurship and business management. These workshops cover a variety of topics, including:
Starting and running a business can be challenging, especially for women who are taking their first steps into entrepreneurship. That’s why we pair each woman with a mentor who provides ongoing support and advice. Our mentorship program connects women with experienced entrepreneurs and business leaders who offer guidance on everything from business strategy to personal development. This personalized support is crucial in helping women navigate the challenges of entrepreneurship and achieve long-term success.
Access to capital is often a significant barrier for women entrepreneurs in post-war African countries. To overcome this, we offer a microloan program that provides the financial resources needed to start or expand a business. These loans are designed to be accessible and manageable, with flexible repayment terms that allow women to grow their businesses at a sustainable pace. The microloan program is a critical component of our approach, giving women the financial foundation they need to put their training and business plans into action.
What makes our program truly unique is the ongoing support we provide. Business development doesn’t end with a loan; it’s a journey that requires continuous guidance. We connect women with mentors and create a network of local entrepreneurs who can provide advice, share experiences, and help troubleshoot challenges as they arise. This community of support ensures that women have the tools they need to overcome obstacles and achieve lasting success. The long-term support offered by the Center is vital to ensuring that women can sustain and grow their businesses, ultimately leading to improved quality of life for themselves and their families.
When you support the Center for Women’s Empowerment, you are investing in the future of women like Martha—women who are ready to take control of their destinies and create a better life for themselves and their families. Together, we can break the cycle of poverty and build stronger, more resilient communities.
Youth Action International and Lemongrass Productions presents a Black Tie Gala to raise funds for solar lights and education supplies.