Empowering
Through Literacy
& Life Skills
At Akwaaba Volunteers, we create safe spaces for learning, building practical skills for independence, and providing pathways to brighter futures through literacy and vocational training.
LIBRARY & VOCATIONAL
Empowering Through Literacy & Life Skills
At Akwaaba Volunteers, we create safe spaces for learning, building practical skills for independence, and providing pathways to brighter futures through literacy and vocational training.
Empowering Through Literacy
In 2022, Akwaaba Volunteers proudly opened our Community Library in Labadi, responding to a pressing need we observed in our community.
Why We Built Our Library
With very low literacy levels across local schools, we wanted to provide children with a resource to improve their reading skills while creating a safe, welcoming space where they could spend time after school and on weekends.
250 Young People Registered
Children visit the library every day to read and enjoy a quiet place to study.
The library has become a hub for young learners, and it’s been incredible to see the positive impact it’s had on our community.
Why We Built Our Library
We are dedicated to fostering a love of reading in young minds, improving literacy skills across the community, supporting academic growth and development, providing a safe space for peer engagement, and creating a productive learning environment.
Volunteering Opportunities
Our Vocational Center is another vital part of our mission to support young people in our community, focusing on providing practical skills training to those who may not have access to formal education.
Through our vocational programs, we offer hands-on learning opportunities that open doors to independence and entrepreneurship.
Sewing and Tailoring
From basic needlework to professional garment creation
Hairdressing
Professional styling and hair care techniques
“Investing in their today is investing in our tomorrow.”
Investing in girls is investing in the future. At our Vocational Center, we are providing girls with the opportunity to learn valuable skills that can change the course of their lives.
Duration: 2 – 12 weeks
Whether you’re an experienced coach or simply passionate about sports, these volunteering opportunities provide a unique chance to help inspire young athletes and make a meaningful difference in Ghana.
Why This Matters
We’re not just teaching skills – we’re building futures. Every girl who learns a trade gains:
✓ Practical skills for immediate employment
✓ Confidence to start their own business
✓ Tools for sustainable financial independence
✓ A pathway out of poverty
From Thread to Enterprise
Girls aged 15 and above currently learning sewing.
These girls are learning to make clothes, school uniforms, and bags for children in our other projects, giving them practical experience while contributing to our community.
Once the girls have gained sufficient experience, we support them in creating their own small businesses, helping them sell their creations and become financially independent.
Basic Needle & Thread
Starting with fundamental hand-sewing techniques
Machine Operation
Gradually progressing to sewing machine skills
Product Creation
Making clothes, uniforms, and bags for community projects
Business Launch
Support to create their own small businesses
Building Confidence and Opportunities
Our Hairdressing Center provides another set of important skills for young girls, offering training in a high-demand industry with excellent entrepreneurship opportunities.
By teaching girls how to style and care for hair, we’re opening doors for them to start their own businesses or find employment in a thriving industry. The hairdressing center also provides a safe space for these girls to gather, learn, and connect in a positive environment.
Full-time Apprentices
Dedicated students learning the complete craft of hairdressing
Weekend Learners
School girls who come to the center on weekends to learn the trade
Why Hairdressing Skills Matter
- Skills are in high demand across communitiesList Item #1
- Low startup costs for beginning a business
- Flexible work arrangements possible
- Opportunities for employment in thriving industry
- Creative and social profession
By offering these vocational training opportunities, we are creating ripple effects of positive change throughout our community.
Our Community Impact
Keeping Girls Safe
Providing structured activities that keep girls off the streets and in positive environments
Life Skills Development
Teaching practical skills they can use for life, building confidence and independence
Community Well-being
Contributing to the well-being of the wider community through skilled, empowered individuals
Safe Learning Spaces
Creating secure environments where girls can learn, connect, and grow together
Breaking Poverty Cycles
Providing clear pathways out of poverty through marketable skills and entrepreneurship
Personal Growth
Supporting not just skill development but also personal growth and confidence building
In doing so, we are not only supporting individual growth but also contributing to community development, creating safe spaces for learning, and providing pathways to independence and prosperity.
Support Our Mission
Can’t volunteer but want to help? There are many ways to support our Library & Vocational Center programs.
Your support helps us provide books, equipment, materials, and training that transforms lives and builds stronger communities.
