Girls Talk Mentorship Program

We are pleased to announce that UNICEF Gambia is supporting our Girls Talk Mentorship Program this year. During the three-day program, we will introduce 30 middle school girls to Child Marriage, Female Genital Mutilation, Sexual Violence, Teenage Pregnancy, Leadership, and other topics that will help empower them and teach them their rights.

Participants will participate in intensive sessions filled with discussions and activities led by highly trained and experienced resource persons and will learn skills to aid their personal development, helping them to communicate better, negotiate more effectively, and make better decisions that have a direct impact on each of their lives. This mentorship program provides girls with a chance to engage with peers and mentors and inspire social change.

The program will:

• Increase the involvement of girls at risk of child marriage or FGM/C in decision-making.
• Encourage them to set, strive for, and achieve worthy goals by offering support, guidance, and encouragement.
• Access to and use of services and supports for adolescent girls, including health, education, economics, and legal services.
• Boost self-confidence and self-esteem among girls.

Criteria

• Applicants must be between the ages of 12 and 17
• Must be enrolled in middle school (any school). Participants who do not attend school but meet the other requirements would be considered.
• Participants must be able to communicate in English.
• The applicant must reside in the Greater Banjul or the West Coast area.
• Must be available for the residential mentorship program at Djembe Hotel from June 9-12, 2022.

Note: It is imperative to obtain the consent of parents and guardians. The form must be completed with their permission and supervision.