Innocent: My dream of becoming a journalist and helping others feels within reach

4 minute read

My dream of becoming a journalist and helping others feels within reach.

Growing up in the rural Gomoa West district of Ghana, my dreams once felt distant. After my parents separated, my mother did her best to provide for me and support me through school, yet we continued to face financial challenges.

I went to live with my sister to support her through her pregnancy and help care for the baby after the birth. Each day, as soon as I got home from school, I would drop my bags and help with household chores. 

I was often so tired and hungry that I found it difficult to concentrate in class and express myself. I began to feel limited in what I could learn and achieve. 

The moment I found out CAMFED was going to provide additional financial support and mentoring, I felt relieved.

I no longer go to school hungry, as CAMFED provides food items such as gari (a staple food in Ghana made from fermented, grated cassava root) and sugar. I now have energy to focus on my studies and do well. 

On Thursdays, I go to the Girls’ Club at my school, led by young women who, like me, overcame barriers to their education with CAMFED’s support. They are respected leaders in my community and part of a wider network of women graduates across Africa — the CAMFED Association.

Here I am (left) with fellow students and Miss Sandra, a CAMFED Association member and peer mentor. (Photo credit: CAMFED/Abby Brooks)

The club gives me the opportunity to meet and talk with like-minded girls, and learn from young women about our basic needs, our inner powers, and setting goals for the future.

My role model, Miss Tracy

One of the young women in the CAMFED Association who comes to my school is my Learner Guide (peer mentor), Miss Tracy. Learner Guides are young women who return to their former schools to act as ‘big sisters’ and deliver life skills and wellbeing sessions for students, using a book called My Better World. 

I already knew Miss Tracy, as she was my sister’s friend growing up and lived in my neighbourhood. I used to see her roasting plantain by the roadside and we would also speak at church. I looked up to her and found her words encouraging. 

After completing school with CAMFED’s support, Miss Tracy went on to university and is pursuing a master’s degree. She has become a role model to many girls in my community. One day, I even saw her speaking on TV!  Seeing her confidence and success made me believe that I too can achieve my dreams.

Me and Miss Tracy at my school. (Photo credit: CAMFED/Abby Brooks)

My favourite My Better World lesson is about living as your real, authentic self. I’ve learned that when you truly understand your interests, you don’t have to live under pretence. You can make decisions for yourself, move forward, and shape your future for the better. 

Graduating into a sisterhood of fearless leaders

I am working hard towards my final school exams, determined to carve a brighter future for myself, my family, and my community.

My favourite subject is Government because I get to learn about how the country is run, which will help me in my future career as a journalist. 

After graduating school, I am excited to join the CAMFED Association and connect with other young women who are giving back to their communities. I want to challenge gender stereotypes and change the narrative for rural girls like me.

Education is the most valuable thing a person can have. When girls are educated, they gain opportunities beyond staying at home to cook and clean. They can pursue careers and contribute to the development of the country. They also pass on their knowledge to their children and communities, setting a powerful example and supporting future generations.