Testimonials
What People Saying About Caritas Freetown, Sierra Leone
Redefining Inclusive Leadership in Monkey Bush Community.
Jane Kamara, a visually impaired youth from the Monkey Bush community, is redefining inclusive leadership. In her community, people with disabilities were once excluded from decision-making. Today, Jane serves as President of the United Women's Association, one of several community structures supported by CRS' Youth in Politics and Peacebuilding Project, implemented by Caritas Freetown Sierra Leone.
Jane began as an ordinary member but quickly distinguished herself. Through project-provided training in leadership, group dynamics, and civic engagement, she gained the skills and confidence to lead. She contested for the presidency and won. Her disability, once seen as a limitation, has not held her back. She now chairs meetings both in person and virtually, mobilizes members, and actively participates in community development activities.
Reflecting on her journey, Jane says, "Before this project, many people believed that because I am visually impaired, I could not lead. Today, I have proved that disability is not inability. The training gave me the confidence, knowledge, and courage to serve my community, and I encourage other persons with disabilities to believe in themselves and take up leadership roles."
During the last national elections, Jane led peace and social cohesion campaigns, bringing together youth and marginalized groups to promote nonviolence and active civic participation. Today, she is not only respected within her association but is also regularly invited to broader community meetings and consultations, where her voice contributes to local decision-making.
The Youth in Politics and Peacebuilding Project is implemented by Caritas Freetown Sierra Leone in partnership with CRS and is funded by the United Nations Peacebuilding Fund, the U.S. Embassy Freetown, the European Union in Sierra Leone, the United Nations in Sierra Leone, and the Embassy of Ireland.
"I'm grateful for the support," Yayah Said Kabia with a smile.'
"The cash transfer has been a blessing. We've been able to start over and look towards a brighter future."
"My name is Aminata Kamara. I come to Christ The King Hospital because I receive proper treatment, and I'm also drawn to the cleanliness and decency of the hospital. There are other hospitals around, but I prefer to come to Christ The King Hospital. I stay in Fonike, and I pay a transportation fare of Le10.00 whenever I want to come to the hospital."
"Caritas Freetown and Trocaire empower vulnerable women, like Madam Binta Bah, through transformative training. Binta's success story speaks volumes: 'Thanks to Caritas Freetown Justice and Peace Commission and Trocaire, I have found my voice and strength. I now run a thriving small business and actively work towards preventing violence against women. The training empowered me to participate in electoral processes, ensuring that our voices are heard. Together, we are making a difference in our communities.' Their mission sparks lasting change and shapes a better future."
"Zainab Kamara, a recipient of support from Caritas Freetown and Manos Unidas, expressed deep gratitude on behalf of all the beneficiaries. She thanked them for commemorating International Women's Day by providing a meaningful gift. Zainab emphasized that Caritas is an organization that consistently prioritizes the needs of people during times of crisis. After experiencing a devastating fire incident, Zainab found herself in despair as all her clothes were destroyed, and she had to be hospitalized. However, upon returning home, she was surprised to find that she received not only new clothing but also other essential items that helped restore her dignity as a woman. Zainab expressed her heartfelt appreciation for these provisions, stating that they have brought a renewed sense of hope and empowerment to her life."
"My name is Aminata Kamara. I come to Christ The King Hospital because I receive proper treatment, and I'm also drawn to the cleanliness and decency of the hospital. There are other hospitals around, but I prefer to come to Christ The King Hospital. I stay in Fonike, and I pay a transportation fare of Le10.00 whenever I want to come to the hospital."
"Caritas Freetown and Trocaire empower vulnerable women, like Madam Binta Bah, through transformative training. Binta's success story speaks volumes: 'Thanks to Caritas Freetown Justice and Peace Commission and Trocaire, I have found my voice and strength. I now run a thriving small business and actively work towards preventing violence against women. The training empowered me to participate in electoral processes, ensuring that our voices are heard. Together, we are making a difference in our communities.' Their mission sparks lasting change and shapes a better future."
"Zainab Kamara, a recipient of support from Caritas Freetown and Manos Unidas, expressed deep gratitude on behalf of all the beneficiaries. She thanked them for commemorating International Women's Day by providing a meaningful gift. Zainab emphasized that Caritas is an organization that consistently prioritizes the needs of people during times of crisis. After experiencing a devastating fire incident, Zainab found herself in despair as all her clothes were destroyed, and she had to be hospitalized. However, upon returning home, she was surprised to find that she received not only new clothing but also other essential items that helped restore her dignity as a woman. Zainab expressed her heartfelt appreciation for these provisions, stating that they have brought a renewed sense of hope and empowerment to her life."