FROM ADVERSITY TO UNRAVELLING POTENTIAL
This is the inspiring journey of Elizabeth Azu, a remarkable student of the Henry Djaba Center for Ideas and Knowledge in Somanya.
“I can’t believe this graduation just happened, so I keep pinching myself. I’m overwhelmed with emotion as I stand here today, holding this certificate that proclaims that I am the best student in Fashion Design 2024 Year Group at the Henry Djaba Memorial Center for Ideas and Knowledge. With tears of joy, I received my TVET certificate and a brand-new sewing machine as a start-up for a brighter future from the Henry Djaba Memorial Foundation.
At 20 years, my journey has been far from easy. Growing up in a vulnerable situation in Accra and Somanya, I have faced countless challenges that could have derailed my dreams. Â I only got up to JSS 2 at Somanya Technical School when I dropped out of school. Â But I refused to let my circumstances define me and enrolled in a 12-month Fashion Design Course at the Henry Djaba Memorial Center for Ideas and Knowledge. I was surprised when I was selected as the school prefect for my year group.
My dream of becoming a fashion designer takes better shape from this graduation. Fashion design has always been my passion. I’ve spent countless hours sketching, sewing, and experimenting with patterns and fabrics. When I received the opportunity to study fashion design at the Center, I knew it was my biggest opportunity to break free from poverty and create a better life for myself and my family. I faced numerous obstacles throughout my training.  From financial struggles to self-doubt, there were times when I felt like giving up.  But I drew strength from my course mates, instructors, and staff at the Center, the community, my family, and my determination to succeed.  I worked tirelessly, cutting and stitching one thread of hope at a time, pouring my heart and soul into every stitch, every detail, every style, and every outfit. Apart from my main course (Fashion and Design),  I was also provided with the opportunity to pursue courses in Bag Making, Bead Jewelry, and Accessories, as well as Liquid Soap Production. I can confidently make men’s and women’s fashionable outfits, design and produce beaded necklaces, accessories, bags, key holders, and liquid soap. Today, at this moment of great triumph as I hold this certificate, I am filled with a world of emotions – joy, gratitude, and a sense of accomplishment. This achievement is not just mine; it is a testament to the power of resilience and the impact that education can have on a person’s life.
As I look to the future, I am strengthened by my struggles and tears at the beginning of the course, and  I am excited to share my skills and experiences with my peers, community, and beyond. I dream of creating clothing and bead jewelry that not only makes people look good but also tells a story of hope and perseverance. I am determined to use my talents to uplift others, to empower girls and women, and to contribute to the growth of my community.
I am grateful to everyone who has supported me on this journey – my family, my friends, my instructors, and staff at the Henry Djaba Memorial Center for Ideas and Knowledge. Kudos to HenryDjaba Memorial Foundation for this laudable initiative”.
Admission is in progress for September 2025 NOW. For enquiries, call us on 0241235199.
Give to provide training, tools and materials for vulnerable girls, women and persons with disability at the Henry Djaba Center for Ideas and Knowledge via Momo no. 0248510067/ GCB Somanya Branch Account no. 2071180000919.
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