Food Security & Livelihoods

Youth unemployment in Sierra Leone remains one of the country’s most urgent challenges. With over 60% of the population under 25, creating meaningful employment opportunities for young people is essential. This dynamic demographic faces limited job opportunities, inadequate skills training, and restricted access to financial resources. Many young people lack the education or vocational training required to compete in today’s job market.

The saying goes, “An idle mind is the devil’s workshop,” and unfortunately, many dropouts and unemployed youth fall prey to societal pressures such as drug addiction, theft, and even commercial sex work. But, Josephine, a proud mother of a 7-year old daughter, was determined to change the narrative for young girls dropping out of school in her community. “I was a dropout, neglected by society and even my own family,” Josephine recalls. “Some friends and loved ones also gave up on me. But I was determined that one day, things would change for me.” 

In Josephine’s community in Bombali District, when a girl drops out of school, they are often quickly married off or thrust into traditional roles, which may include bearing children or engaging in petty trade. Despite these challenges, ChildFund is contributing towards turning the tide. Our youth programs are designed to unlock the potential of young individuals, equipping them to grow into resilient and resourceful members of society. With support from ChildFund through its local partner Munafa M’Patie Federation, Josephine found a way out. She enrolled in a vocational training program funded by ChildFund and began to see a brighter future. “I am now a valuable member of society. I’ve managed to rent my own place, send my child to school, and even support my family,” Josephine shares.

Josephine doing plumbing work for a client on a newly constructed building.

Female plumbers are rare in Josephines community and the country at large, but Josephine has become a role model. “Today, I am admired by many for the work that I do,” she says. “I frequently receive contracts and job offers.” Josephine is just one of 180 young people trained in Bombali District over the past 2 years. 

Inspired to further her skills, she pursued an advanced diploma in plumbing at the Sierra Leone Opportunities Industrialization Centre (SLOIC). “I am proud to have graduated with flying colors,” she says. Now, Josephine leads the plumbing department at Wusum Hotel in Makeni, overseeing two male plumbers. “This entire journey started with one step, a step that was supported by ChildFund,” Josephine reflects. “I am grateful for this opportunity.” 

See more stories like Josephine’s – young people’s lives transformed through vocational training supported by ChildFund and our partners in this video: