BTO graduate hopeful for future

Koni Yimer, our Program Manager in Ethiopia, recently sat down for a chat with Kefer, a BTO graduate. During their conversation Kefer shared some of her life experiences, as well as her hopes for the future.

Kefer, what was your life like before?

I grew up in an orphanage and when I turned 18 I was forced to leave. This was when I started working at a local cafe. However this soon closed and I was at high risk.

Life was scary. I was fearful and sad, and had nowhere to go.

What happened after you joined our program?

I was saved from living a street life. BTO rented a house for me and my friends. I felt like people cared about me and that they’d help me find a job and become self reliant.

How did you feel when you graduated from BTO?

When I graduated I was already working in retail. I felt that I was ready to start my own life.

What are your goals for the future?

I want to have my own shop in the future. I want to develop skills in retail/small business and improve my life.  Because of inflation, everything is becoming very expensive and it will be very difficult for me, unless I increase my income. So that’s my main goal.

You can help young adults like Kefer reach their goals by donating or fundraising online.