The Akilah Institute for Women

Irene and Salama, Welcome!

These two young women are part of the inaugural class that begins their studies on  February 1 at Akilah.

For the Akilah team, 2010 represents the beginning of a vision long in the making. A vision that has been developed and supported by individuals around the world.

To Irene and Salama, 2010 is the beginning of a new future.

A future of hope and opportunity built on education.

“Why is it important to educate women?” I asked.

“Because otherwise we can do nothing,” Irene said.

“We feel poorly about ourselves without education,” added Salama. “And it is hard to find food. Life is hard without a job.”

Salama, 23, head of her household since age 16 when her mother died of AIDS, lost her father in the genocide when she was 8. Irene, now 20, lost both her parents to AIDS when she was 6. Both young women seek a bright future through an education at Akilah.

I met them through a group of young orphans who meet once a week to give each other support and foster hope. Irene and Salama joined the group in 2003. Both of them now hold leadership positions in the organization. Irene is Vice President while Salama is treasurer.

This orphan community has given Irene and Salama motivation, encouragement, and a network, but both of these bright, articulate women are now stuck. Without the money to pay school fees, they told me, they have no options. They must stay at home and do nothing. They see wasted lives looming in front of them.

Irene dreams of becoming a manager while Salama’s drive pushes her towards owning her own business; so no one can keep her paycheck. However, they both know that to accomplish these goals, they need a good education. Leadership training and market relevant skills.

Irene and Salama have been selected to join the inaugural class of students at Akilah. During the upcoming year, they will take a full course load in classes such as: Leadership and Ethics; Computer Skills; Public Speaking; Health and Nutrition; Hospitality, and others. Learn more about the curriculum of the Foundation Year Program at Akilah.

Watch a new video about Akilah and join the international team that has come together to make this vision a reality.

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