On August 6, 2025, Bright Light Projects (BLP) team in Buea conducted routine monitoring visits to nine trainees in the Catering Department at the Women’s Empowerment and Family Centre (WEFC) in Buea, Southwest Region, Cameroon. These young women, part of the 15 beneficiaries of BLP’s flagship Girls Shall Rise (GSR) program for the 2024/2025 cohort, are currently interning at top hotels in Buea, including WDC, Eta Palace, Capitol Hotel, and Mountain Hotel. The focus of these visits is to evaluate their performance, encourage, offer constructive feedback, and ensure they are meeting their learning objectives and professional standards.
Empowering Vulnerable Young Women
Since its inception in 2021 in Cameroon, the Girls Shall Rise program has been a beacon of hope for young women in Cameroon’s conflict-affected Anglophone regions. The 15 beneficiaries, all of whom fled their villages due to the ongoing crisis in the Northwest and Southwest regions since 2016, are receiving skills training, entrepreneurship education, and mentorship. BLP’s methodology provides direct support to these young women, who face multiple challenges, empowering them to rebuild their lives and contribute to their communities.
- 9 trainees in the Catering Department are gaining hands-on experience through internships.
- 15 beneficiaries in the 2024/2025 cohort are set to graduate in December 2025.
- 100% of beneficiaries are survivors of conflict, demonstrating resilience and determination.
Building Stronger Communities
BLP is committed to advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 5 (Gender Equality) and SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth). Through strategic partnerships, BLP is rebuilding broken communities by equipping young women with practical skills and entrepreneurial knowledge. The GSR program not only fosters individual growth but also creates a ripple effect, as these empowered women become role models and catalysts for change in their communities.
Impact in Numbers
- Since 2021: Over 50 young women have benefited from the GSR program across multiple cohorts.
- 2024/2025 Cohort: 15 young women trained in vocational skills, with 9 specializing in catering.
- Internship Placements: 100% of catering trainees placed in reputable hotels in Buea.
- Graduation Timeline: All 15 beneficiaries are on track to graduate by December 2025.
A Vision for the Future
The success of the Girls Shall Rise program underscores BLP’s mission: stronger women build stronger communities. By providing skills training, mentorship, and opportunities for entrepreneurship, BLP is transforming lives and fostering sustainable development in Cameroon’s Anglophone regions. As we look toward the December 2025 graduation, we celebrate the resilience and potential of these young women who are rising above adversity to shape a brighter future.
Join us in supporting these incredible young women as they continue their journey to empowerment and leadership!
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