From April 1st to 4th, 2025, a transformative four-day training took place at Aurora House, located at 35 Fraser Street, Pipeline Road, Freetown. This training was part of a project jointly implemented by the International Organization for Migration (IOM), ECOWAS, and the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Task Force Secretariat (A-TiP). The initiative was aimed at empowering female returnees through entrepreneurship as part of the Return and Reintegration Program.
A total of 17 women participated in the program, engaging in valuable learning experiences designed to enhance their entrepreneurial skills and improve their economic independence. The training content was carefully structured to cover three core areas:
- Building an Entrepreneurial Mindset: This module focused on helping participants understand the concept of entrepreneurship, identify business opportunities, overcome challenges, and effectively engage with customers.
- Financial & Inventory Management: This segment taught participants how to manage both business and personal finances, calculate profits, and maintain efficient inventory systems. These skills are crucial for running a successful business.
- Growth & Business Expansion: On the final day, participants reflected on the lessons learned and explored how to identify growth opportunities, troubleshoot common business challenges, and plan for sustainable expansion.
The first day of the training was led by IOM, with the remaining three days facilitated by Aurora House experts. By the end of the training, each participant received a certificate of completion, symbolizing their newfound knowledge and empowerment in entrepreneurship.
This training is a significant step in supporting the reintegration of returnees and providing them with the tools needed to build sustainable livelihoods and succeed in their entrepreneurial ventures.
