Martha joined the Adolescent girls programme in 2020 at the age 16 years. Her mother suffering from dwarfism was neglected by her husband and this made her lack any form of support from her family. The community therefore led by the Assembly member took over her upbringing and paid for her schooling, food, and transport costs among others.
In her vulnerability, she heard about the Adolescent Girls programme being implemented by PAYDP and funded by UNFPA and Canada. Martha’s journey also included her involvement in all the programs organized by PAYDP and funded by UNFPA and Canada. RHESY (Reproductive Health Education and Service for Young People) where the girls were taught livelihood skills such as soap making, shea butter body and hair creams, household cosmetics, personal hygiene, teenage pregnancy, and Sexually Transmitted Infections. She also joined the Yole Girls Speak Club, Chief Justice Mentorship Program, Sexual Reproductive Health Training, and SGBV (Sexual and Gender-Based Violence. Through leadership skills training and financial and legal literacy training through these programmes, Martha became a RHESY facilitator and shared information to the young girls in the community.
Ambassador a Day Programme
Martha’s journey from participating in the Adolescent program to becoming an Ambassador for a day is an indication to the transformative power of opportunities and talent. Winning the essay competition on Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) not only showcased Martha’s writing skills but also her passion for addressing important social issues. This victory not only provided her with a unique experience but also opened doors to a brighter future.
The opportunity to shadow the Norwegian Ambassador not only allowed Martha to experience the diplomatic world firsthand but also revealed a serendipitous connection between her and the Ambassador’s shared interest in fashion. This connection likely facilitated a deeper bond between them during the “Ambassador for a day” program.
TAD FASHION INSTITUTE
The culmination of Martha’s day as a participant in the Ambassador a Day programme, was the award of a full scholarship to TADS Fashion Institute, this marks a pivotal moment in her life. This scholarship not only recognizes Martha’s potential but also provides her with the means to pursue her passion for fashion without financial constraints. The support from PAYDP and other generous individuals ensures that Martha’s dreams can become a reality by covering the costs of materials needed for her fashion education.
Martha said “Through these programs, she has been exposed to a lot of opportunities such as winning an award for Ambassador a day
Martha’s story highlights the importance of providing opportunities and support to talented young individuals, regardless of their background. Through programs like the one organized by the British High Commission and the generosity of organizations like PAYDP, individuals like Martha can unlock their potential and make meaningful contributions to society.