POTENTIAL helps young people to reinvent themselves

Mengistu Hailemariam, 24, is a resident of Tsibet Kebele, Endamehoni Wereda of Tigray Region. After completing grade 10, he could not pursue higher education and had to continue being dependent on his family. The life he was leading was too painful and he often fought with his parents. In a desperate attempt to become independent, he fled to Mekele city looking for work, where he became a daily labourer. However, his income was barely enough for daily subsistence.

After a year in Mekelle, he returned to his village, and got married. However, he still had no land to plough, no animals to rear and no money to invest. His meagre income came from selling ‘Ensosila’. He only made 400 Birr a month, which was far too little to support his family. His family size grew with the addition of two new children, which made things even more difficult.

In the middle of leading such difficult life, Mengistu was selected by the Kebele to be part of the POTENTIAL project.

He then passed through ‘Positive Youth Development’, ‘Work Ready Now!’ and ‘Be Your Own Boss’ trainings. Following the trainings, based on his Personal Development Plan, he took 15,000 Birr loan from Dedebit Credit and Saving Share Company, and started a business in rental farming, ‘Ensosila’ trade and sheep rearing businesses. In addition, he formed and chairs Youths’ Environmental Business Association.

Mengistu currently earns a minimum of 2,000 Birr every month from his businesses, which is far higher than his previous income. His total asset has reached 70,000 Birr. He has also paid back his entire loan and saved 15,000 Birr in ‘equb’ (local saving scheme) which will offer him 35,000 Birr as a big pay out. He said his businesses have enabled him to use his time and energy efficiently. His growing income has also improved living standard of his family and healed his relationship with his parents. He currently covers basic living and educational expenses for his brothers and sisters.

Mengistu says that he has his life back and is now one of the happiest people in the Kebele. He attributes his success to the three trainings he received by POTENTIAL Project. According to Mengistu, the trainings have helped him to reinvent himself as someone who has a vision for himself, his family and community. He says, “The trainings have enabled me to develop a positive attitude, prepare myself for work, discover local business opportunities and above all, to believe in myself and have a purpose in life”.

Mengistu plans to expand his business to open a restaurant in Maychew, a nearby town. He advises other young people in his Kebele to learn from his journey.