As a single parent, Husina’s mother did her best to meet the basic needs of her children by trading in clothes and fabric. She worked hard to care for Husina’s brother, who lives with a disability, and managed to send her older daughter to training college. But by the time it was Husina’s turn to go to secondary school, the family’s resources were strained. Sometimes extended family would help out, but the money didn’t go far. Husina was anxious about the future of her education and about the daily hardship she knew her mother experienced.
When CAMFED and the Mastercard Foundation stepped in to support Husina’s education, she was overjoyed and became more determined than ever to succeed. CAMFED’s holistic approach covers more than just school fees, so that for girls like Husina, their whole future does not ride on the cost of stationery or menstrual products.
Husina pictured with CAMFED alumna (CAMA member) Hannah. She is growing in confidence with educated young women as her role models. (Photo: CAMFED/Eliza Powell)
Husina (left) walking with her friends, CAMA Member Issah and fellow CAMFED scholar Belawu. (Photo: CAMFED/Eliza Powell)
Husina’s favourite subjects at school are science and history. Following the opportunity to participate in a leadership scheme at KNUST University, Husina developed new skills and confidence. She learned about public speaking and debating, helping her get elected as a school prefect. This stands her in good stead to fulfil her dream of becoming a lawyer.
Husina already has a clear desire to address social injustices and bring about positive change. She looks up to members of CAMFED’s alumnae association, CAMA, who are activists and philanthropists in the local community.
Inspired by CAMA, Husina worked with other CAMFED scholars at her school, to take action about the inadequate toilet facilities. Along with a lack of sanitary wear, toilet facilities that are unsafe, unclean or lacking in privacy are another gender-related reason that girls drop out of school. Husina and her peers garnered support for their project and ensured the renovation of a toilet block.
By unlocking potential and unleashing leadership qualities, CAMFED and CAMA are working to enable girls like Husina to become agents of change, who can break the cycle of poverty and inequality for good.