Breaking Chains, Inspiring Inclusion: Theresa's Success Story

At the tender age of seventeen, Theresa found herself at the crossroads of dreams and limitations. Coming from a family of nine, with her mother Aba Yeboahba as the sole caretaker, the odds were stacked against Theresa's pursuit of education. In a society where women often face barriers to empowerment, the family enrolled in Bethany’s Family Preservation and Empowerment program.

Bethany’s support became Theresa's bridge to a brighter future. The program's holistic approach to family support, tends to the need of all members in the household and not just the primary caregiver. This is how the organization recognized the potential within Theresa and facilitated her enrollment in a three-year senior high school program in Cape Coast. Here, she chose to study Home Economics, with a focus on clothing and textiles. Theresa's journey was a big step towards breaking the chains of gender inequality that persist in Ghana.

Theresa transformed her education into a tangible skill set by honing her talents as a fashion designer. Her dedication and hard work bore fruit on the 24th of February, 2024, as she successfully completed her training. This accomplishment not only marked the beginning of a promising career but also a beacon of hope for her family and community. Theresa is now poised to establish her own shop, and the income she generates will not only meet her personal needs but also support her siblings and the entire family. However, she must first surmount the challenge of securing the necessary support to kickstart her entrepreneurial venture.

Theresa's journey resonates deeply with this year's theme for International Women’s Day, "inspire inclusion". In Ghana, women often find themselves marginalized and disempowered compared to their male counterparts. Theresa's story is a testament to the transformative power of inclusion. Through education and skill development, she has defied societal norms and paved the way for a more inclusive future.

As Theresa prepares to open her own fashion design shop, the impact of empowerment is not limited to her alone. Her success becomes a ripple effect, inspiring other young women to dream beyond the constraints imposed by gender norms. Bethany Ghana's commitment to family preservation and empowerment is an embodiment of the change needed to create a world where women are not only present but actively valued and empowered in all aspects of life.

On this International Women's Day, let Theresa's story serve as a poignant reminder that resilience, determination, and empowerment can break down barriers and inspire inclusion. As we celebrate the achievements of women worldwide, may we continue to work towards a future where every Theresa has the opportunity to shine, breaking free from the chains that bind her, and inspiring inclusion for generations to come. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Theresa for her unwavering determination and commend her remarkable efforts. As she embarks on the exciting journey of launching her new business, we send her our warmest wishes for success and prosperity.