Our three vocational programs (Sew Much Hope, Cooking Up Hope, and Power of Hope), made possible through three grants from Project Redwood of Tides Foundation, continue to create opportunities for Hope International students and community members to gain skills and increase income.
Currently we have a total of 598 students enrolled in the three programs. 275 of these are 11th and 12th graders at Hope International and 323 are surrounding community members who have welcomed the opportunity they may have likely never been granted.
Here are four of our graduates doing such HOPEful things!
Cecelia Fomba
Community Member
Cooking Up Hope Graduate
Cecelia says that the culinary skills she gained through Hope International’s vocational program, Cooking Up Hope, have “transformed and elevated her life.” Since graduation, she has been earning income by selling finger foods she prepares each morning in a market stall. Cecelia also is contracted to prepare food for birthdays, graduations, and parties. She is no longer experiencing the impacts of severe poverty.
Tina Sanley
Community Member
Sew Much Hope Graduate
Tina Sanley, graduated in the first class of Hope International’s vocational program, Sew Much Hope. She applied for the sewing machine loan program and has completed all payments. Tina is running a successful in-home business sewing for individuals and local schools. Before having the opportunity to attend Sew Much Hope, Tina shared that she was a struggling mother, often not able to meet her family’s basic needs. Her determination and skill in combination with the training she received has enabled her to earn an income that supports her family. She said, "my life has definitely changed for the better.”
Augustine Tengbeh
Community Member
Sew Much Hope Graduate
Prior to graduating from Sew Much Hope, Augustine struggled to support himself and his family. The tailoring skills he learned through Hope International’s vocational program, Sew Much Hope, have made it possible for Augustine to become a business owner in his community. He has established a shop with employees and is able to support his family with the income he is earning.
Dawosu K. Morris
Community Member
Sew Much Hope Graduate
Dawosu did not complete high school and began raising children early. The skills she gained through Hope International’s vocational program, Sew Much Hope, have helped Dawosu lift her life up from uncertainties and disadvantages. She has now been taking in sewing work in her home. The income she earns has made it possible to provide food and pay for the housing for her family. Dawosu says, “Sew Much Hope has transformed my entire life.”