In Northern Ghana, where youth unemployment remains a pressing challenge, the YES Project, funded by Empower – The Emerging Market, is proving that skills training can be a catalyst for transformation. Designed to equip young people with employable skills and sustainable livelihoods, the project has already begun to yield tangible results.
One such success story is that of Abdul Manan Umar, a young and passionate participant in the project’s Phase I photography and videography training. Before joining the program, Abdul Manan had a keen interest in creative storytelling but lacked the skills and access to opportunities to pursue a career in cinematography. The YES Project changed that.
Through intensive hands-on training, mentorship, and exposure to industry-standard equipment, Abdul Manan and his colleagues honed their skills in photography, videography, and visual storytelling. They gained practical experience working on real projects and developed a portfolio that showcased their talent. The training not only enhanced their technical abilities but also built their confidence in navigating the creative industry.
“Before the YES Project, I had dreams but no clear direction,” says Manan. “Now, I have the skills, experience, and confidence to pursue my passion and make a living from it.”
“This opportunity has been life-changing for me,” Abdul Manan adds. “I never imagined I would be able to turn my passion into a profession, but the YES Project made it possible.”
Today, Abdul Manan has secured a full-time job as a cinematographer with My HereAfter Ghana, a non-profit organization dedicated to helping the poor and the needy sustain their livelihood. This is a testament to the impact of the YES Project in shaping career pathways for youth. This achievement is not just a personal victory but a validation of the power of skill development and empowerment.
“Getting this job has been a dream come true,” says Abdul Man. “I now work on professional projects, collaborating with experienced teams and using high-end equipment.”
“I feel proud to contribute to impactful storytelling through my cinematography work,” Abdul Manan continues. “The training I received through the YES Project gave me the foundation I needed, and now I am building on it with real-world experience.”
The success of Abdul Manan underscores the broader mission of the YES Project to bridge the unemployment gap by providing young people with the tools and opportunities they need to thrive. With continued support, the project aims to reach more aspiring creatives, fostering a new generation of skilled professionals contributing to Ghana’s creative and media landscape.
At NiV, we believe that every young person deserves the opportunity to succeed. Stories like Abdul Manan’s fuel our commitment to creating sustainable social impact through innovation and skills development. The journey has just begun, and with the right support, the ripple effects of empowerment will continue to change lives.
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