In the neighborhood of Pikine, on the outskirts of Saint-Louis, Senegal, the organization AFE provides vocational training programs for girls and young women seeking greater economic independence. Among its most popular courses are sewing and embroidery, skills that many students hope will help them build sustainable careers in the future.
For many participants, AFE is much more than a training center. It serves as a place of socialization, community and mutual support, where women and girls can meet, learn and share experiences. In a context where economic opportunities can be limited, the center offers a space to develop practical skills while building confidence and independence.
Many of the students dream of opening their own tailoring businesses after completing their studies. Others hope to find employment in the local textile sector. The training provides not only technical knowledge but also a pathway toward financial autonomy.
The teachers themselves often reflect the community they serve. Many are young mothers who are able to balance work with family responsibilities, benefiting from employment opportunities while continuing to care for their homes and children.
Although most participants are teenage girls and young women, the classes are also attended by married women looking to acquire new skills and improve their economic prospects. The diversity of ages and backgrounds creates an environment where knowledge and experiences are shared across generations.
Beyond education, the center also fulfills an important social role. The building functions as a safe house for victims of domestic abuse and violence, providing protection and support to women facing difficult circumstances. Through training, community and solidarity, AFE has become a place where women can work toward a more secure and independent future.
Photo: Hanna Eichner / MedPress.
