Women & Youth Empowerment Program

Globally, more than 70% of people living in poverty are women. For many, poverty is not only about lack of income, but it also means limited opportunities, restricted rights, and unheard voices. At ACOH, we are committed to advancing gender equality and empowering women and youth through a community-driven development (CDD) approach.

We believe that communities best understand their own challenges. Lasting empowerment can only be achieved by addressing the root causes of inequality. By leveraging local knowledge, skills, and resources, we work alongside communities to create sustainable solutions that improve livelihoods and overall quality of life.

Understanding the Challenge

Poverty often creates a cycle that is difficult to break. Women and girls living in poverty face multiple layers of discrimination and are at greater risk of violence and exploitation. For example:

• Girls from low-income families are significantly more likely to be married at an early age
• Women experiencing domestic or intimate partner violence often lack the financial independence to leave unsafe environments
• Young women who drop out of school due to financial constraints are left without the skills needed to secure stable employment

Our Approach

Through advocacy, skills development, and economic empowerment, we support women and youth to build sustainable and independent futures.

1. Vocational Skills Training

We provide practical, income-generating skills to young women and youth, including:

• Carpentry
• Hairdressing and beauty therapy
• Mechanics
• Plumbing
• Garment making and tailoring
• Food and beverage services
• Building and construction

2. Economic Empowerment & Livelihoods

We support women to start and grow small businesses, improve household incomes, and achieve financial independence.

3. Food Security & Sustainable Development

Our programs promote access to resources and training that enhance food production, nutrition, and long-term sustainability.

4. Social Empowerment & Advocacy

We work to strengthen voices within communities by:

• Promoting gender equality
• Raising awareness on gender-based violence
• Supporting women to advocate for their rights

5. Water, Sanitation & Community Resources

We integrate access to essential services such as water and sanitation to improve health, dignity, and productivity.

Community-Led Impact

By partnering with women’s community-based organizations (CBOs) and self-help groups, we implement sustainable, long-term initiatives that empower women socially and economically. These partnerships ensure that solutions are locally relevant, inclusive, and impactful.

How You Can Help

You can support women and youth on their journey to empowerment by:

• Donating to vocational training programs
• Supporting income-generating projects
• Partnering with us to expand opportunities for vulnerable communities