Rising from the ashes: Melvis’ Path to Empowerment
Meet Melvis, an 18-year-old young mother of a 5-year-old girl, who has overcome incredible challenges with the support of our project, funded by UNICEF and ECHO.
Originally from the Southwest, Melvis moved to the Northwest region due to the ongoing crisis and lived with her elder sister. Despite having a child, she was determined to acquire a skill and expressed a strong interest in salon hairdressing.
Recognizing her determination, Caritas the implementing partner of the Project sponsored her training. After a year of dedicated learning, Melvis graduated and now owns a thriving salon. Her salon not only provides her with a stable income but also allows her to support herself and her child independently. She has moved out of her sister’s home and is now self-reliant, even able to lend a helping hand to others in her community.
Reflecting on her journey, Melvis shares, “I am so grateful for the support I received. It has changed my life and my child’s life. Owning my salon has given me the confidence and means to stand on my own.”
Odette, the Public Relations Officer for Caritas Bamenda, adds, “Despite our limited resources, we strive to manage each case and ensure that every child we assist moves from one level of stability to the next. Our dream is to make a meaningful impact, no matter how small, and to see children, especially girls, free and with access to education.”
The ongoing crisis in the Northwest region of Cameroon has severely impacted adolescent girls, leading to increased displacement and vulnerability. With funding from European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations (ECHO) and the support of UNICEF, efforts to support these girls include promoting community learning centers and vocational training programs to help them continue their education and gain skills for economic independence.
The project, “Emergency Response for Children in the Areas Most Affected by Conflict and Crisis in the Southwest and Northwest Regions of Cameroon,” continues to make a significant impact. Despite the challenges, the dedication and success stories like Melvis’ highlight the positive changes the Project is making in the lives of vulnerable children.
The intervention targets 3,600 children and their caregivers in Mezam,Menchum, Ngokentunjia, and Momo divisions of the NW Region, providing access to child protection services, mental health support, and assistance for GBV survivors. Additionally, 30,000 indirect beneficiaries will receive information on child protection and GBV risks, birth registration, and safe channels to report abuse and access humanitarian assistance.
— — — By Salomon Marie Joseph Beguel, Communication Officer, UNICEF
