By Kadiatu A. Turay.

At the heart of the Funkia Community in Freetown, the spirit of hope and renewal filled the air as the Beckma Empowerment Initiative (BEMI) launched the maiden edition of its flagship program titled “Hope Beyond the Classroom.” The event brought together young women, community leaders, and education advocates, all united under a single mission to give girls who missed out on formal education a second chance to learn, grow, and thrive.

Held at the Funkia Community Center, the program marked more than just a ceremony. It symbolized a movement one that seeks to transform limitations into liberation. With the theme “From Limitation to Liberation: Giving Undereducated Girls a Second Chance,” the initiative aims to bridge the gap between education and empowerment through skills training, mentorship, and self-development.

In her keynote address, the Chief Executive Officer of BEMI, Manty Sulman Backley, emphasized that the program is designed to ensure that no girl is left behind simply because she could not complete formal education.

“Our goal is simple,” said Backley. “We want every girl, regardless of her background or circumstances, to know that she matters. Education is not limited to the four walls of a classroom it is about giving girls the tools to become self-reliant, confident, and productive members of society.”

According to Backley, many girls in communities like Funkia face difficult circumstances ranging from poverty and teenage pregnancy to early marriage that force them to abandon their dreams. BEMI, she explained, is determined to rewrite that story.

“We believe every girl deserves a second chance,” she added. “When you empower a woman, you empower a family and ultimately, a whole community.”

The event drew the attention of local chiefs, teachers, and gender advocates who expressed admiration for the work being done by BEMI.

“This program is a blessing for our girls,” an elder remarked. “For too long, many of them have been sitting at home with no opportunity to learn. Now, they are being given a path to success that does not depend on formal schooling alone.”

Similarly, Madam Fathima Kamara a women’s advocate, highlighted the importance of practical skills in empowering women.

“Not every girl will make it through school, but every girl can learn something valuable,” she said. “When we teach them tailoring, gara dyeing, catering, or hairdressing, we are giving them a way to support themselves and contribute to the economy.”

Guest speaker Mrs. Manty Dabor Turay, an education and gender rights advocate, noted that the program is not just about skills it is about restoring dignity.

“Many of these young women have faced early marriage, financial hardship, and social stigma,” she said. “By creating spaces like this, BEMI is telling them that their dreams still matter, and that it is never too late to start over.”

Mrs. Turay also called on other organizations and policymakers to replicate similar programs in other parts of Sierra Leone.

“Empowerment should not be limited to one community. Every district deserves initiatives like this because education is not just about literacy; it’s about opportunity and hope,” she emphasized.

Mrs. Maude Peacock former vice Principal  at the Milton Margai College of Education and Technology,  and former President of Women’s Forum Sierra Leone. Her message resonated deeply with the participants, motivating the girls to believe in their potential and reinforcing the importance of education, self-worth, and resilience. Mrs. Peacock’s thoughtful contribution added great value to the dialogue, leaving everyone encouraged to continue advocating for the empowerment of girls and the elimination of harmful practices.

Among the participants was Khadija Kamara, a mother of two, whose excitement was visible as she spoke about her journey “I am happy to be part of this program because it gives me a chance to learn tailoring and other skills,” she said. “Before now, I didn’t have anything to do. But today, I feel proud that I can work and help support my family.”

Another participant, Aminata Koroma, shared a similar story of transformation “I came across this program through Mrs. Benthly,” she explained. “She visited my house and told me not to sit idle, that even as a mother I could still learn. Before, I didn’t know how to ‘gara’ (tie-dye), but now I can do it. I wanted to learn for a long time but didn’t have the money. This program has changed my life.”

Her words echo the sentiments of many women in the room who once thought their learning journey had ended, only to find a new beginning through BEMI’s initiative.

For many community members, “Hope Beyond the Classroom” represents more than just a skills program it’s a symbol of possibility. The inclusion of mentoring sessions, motivational talks, and peer learning creates a holistic approach to empowerment, blending education with emotional and social support.

Abu Conteh, a local teacher who volunteered as a mentor, said he was inspired by the determination of the participants. Abu Conteh, a local teacher who volunteered as a mentor, said he was inspired by the determination of the participants.

“These women are eager to learn,” he noted. “Some of them come from far distances just to attend the sessions. It shows how much they value this opportunity. They are not only learning skills they are regaining their confidence.”

As the first edition of “Hope Beyond the Classroom” concluded, organizers promised that this was just the beginning of a long journey. According to CEO Backley, BEMI plans to expand the program to other parts of the Western Area and eventually across Sierra Leone, reaching more young women who need empowerment.

“This is not a one-time event,” she assured. “We are building a sustainable platform that will continue to train, mentor, and support girls who have been left behind. Our vision is to see every girl, no matter her story, rise above her limitations.”

The event closed with a renewed sense of hope and purpose. The laughter, smiles, and excitement among the participants spoke volumes about the impact already being made. For the women of Funkia, hope has truly gone beyond the classroom it has entered their hearts, their hands, and their future.

Copyright –Published in Expo Times News on Wednesday, 15th October 2025 (ExpoTimes News – Expo Media Group (expomediasl.com)