Emma Princess Mbayo is a 21-year old and a mother to a healthy and beautiful daughter. Emma was living with her grandmother while attending Saint Paul Secondary school and sat for the West African Senior School Certificate Examination in 2012. She was very determined to continue her education and receive a university degree. But when she got pregnant all her dreams were shattered.
“My grandmother, who used to pay for my education, was not able to support me after I gave birth. She loves me very much and wants the best for me, but she is too old to work in order to afford my expenses now” shares Emma.
BRAC Sierra Leone came to Emma’s community one day and announced that they were starting the Empowerment and Livelihood for Adolescents Programme (ELA) for the young mothers, dropouts, and the uneducated girls. Although Emma was hesitant at first, her grandmother encouraged her to participate. 56 girls were selected as programme participants to be trained, however, only 10 of them were able to complete the training and graduate.
The ELA club was a bit far from Emma’s home, but she never stopped attending. “I am happy that I endured all those struggles to acquire the skills that greatly benefit me today” says Emma.
After Emma graduated, BRAC team provided her with a sewing machine which she uses for tailoring and earning a living. She is now capable of taking care of her daughter and grandmother.
“I am proud to be a mentor for other girls in the ELA club and I also encourage them to join the programme. I am extremely grateful to BRAC for shedding a light that has helped me to find a way to support my family and feel empowered” states Emma.
