By Ike Uchechukwu CALABAR

Her Voice Foundation, an NGO dedicated to empowering the teenage mothers and at-risk girls in Cross River State, has launched its Empowering Survivors through Transformative Education and Entrepreneurship (EMPOWER) Project.

The launch held weekend  at the Scenic Games Centre, Obudu Ranch Resort in Obanliku LGA, is an  initiative, supported by Project Nightfall Philanthropy, aims to uplift 50 survivors of money-marriage through a rigorous 4-month entrepreneurship skill training program.

Upon completion, participants will receive essential start-up kits, paving the way for their economic independence and self-reliance.

Speaking at the event, Executive Director of Her Voice Foundation, Favour Abatang, underscored the importance of the initiative.

She said the launch of the project marks the beginning of a transformative journey for the participants, reinforcing their value and potential in society.

“The EMPOWER Project is a key initiative to addressing the resurgence of money marriage and empowering survivors.

“This project is so dear to us as an organization and holds immense potential to change lives. We hope that this initiative serves as a reminder that you are so valuable, and you can stand on your own two feet and help yourself.”

In his remarks, the founder of Project Nightfall Philanthropy, Agon Hare, emphasized the urgency of education for girls.

He  highlighted the global significance of the initiative, adding that no society can truly prosper if half its population is left behind in terms of education and economic opportunities.

“One of the most impactful things we can do for girls right now is to make sure that they are educated. Education is a critical tool in breaking the cycle of poverty and abuse.

“There are hundreds of millions of girls who don’t get an education, we want to be part of this cause to help and spread awareness to the world about this entire topic,'” he added.

On her part, co-founder of Project Nightfall Philanthropy, Sonya Mulkeet, reminded attendees that under no circumstances should women be commodified.

“It is crucial for the world to know that women are not commodities to be traded. There can never be a price on a human life, especially a woman. We must work together to ensure that every woman is respected and valued for who she is,” she said.

The Clan Head of Becheve Community in Obanliku LGA, HRH Sunday Ichille, thanked Her Voice Foundation for driving meaningful partnerships to support survivors.

 “You have kept your word to increase the learning timeline for survivors from 1 month to 4 months, and this shows you have great interest in the survivors,’ Ichile said