EmpowerHER with Tech: Equipping Women for the Future of Work
EmpowerHER with Tech is a month-long training program by Aion Health SL that equips 50 underserved women in Bo, Sierra Leone with skills in project management, entrepreneurship, grant writing, digital literacy, and AI. Supported by the YES Alumni Grants, the initiative empowers participants to lead, innovate, and access economic opportunities. The program is building a network of confident, tech-savvy women ready to shape their communities and the future.
In a world where technology drives progress, too many women—especially in underserved communities—are being left behind. At Aion Health SL, we believe digital inclusion is gender equity, and we are proud to launch EmpowerHER with Tech, a transformative skills-building program aimed at equipping 50 young women in Bo, Sierra Leone with the digital and professional tools they need to thrive.
This initiative is made possible through the generous support of the YES Alumni Grants, empowering YES program graduates to create sustainable change in their communities.
Program Overview
EmpowerHER with Tech is a month-long training designed to increase women’s participation in the digital economy and social impact leadership. Held at KonFam Garage in Bo from September 27 to October 27, 2024, the program focuses on six key areas:
- Project Management Fundamentals
- Entrepreneurship Essentials
- Grant Writing Skills
- Business Plan and Financial Literacy
- Microsoft Office and Google Apps
- Artificial Intelligence (AI) for Everyday Use
Why This Matters
Women in Sierra Leone often face systemic barriers in accessing quality education, technology, and funding for entrepreneurship. EmpowerHER with Tech addresses these gaps by:
- Building technical confidence and digital literacy
- Supporting women-led innovation and startups
- Fostering economic empowerment through practical skills
- Promoting SDG 5 (Gender Equality) and SDG 4 (Quality Education)
By investing in women, we are investing in entire communities.
Our Impact So Far
- 50 underserved women selected from over 300 applicants
- A diverse team of local female trainers leading each session
- Hands-on workshops, simulations, and mentorship
- Early feedback shows participants are already using their new skills to launch ventures, apply for jobs, and write their first grant proposals
The program also builds a network of support, connecting participants with peers, mentors, and potential collaborators for long-term impact.
Supported by YES Alumni Grants
This program was proudly funded by the YES Alumni Grants Program, an initiative of the U.S. Department of State and American Councils that empowers alumni of the Kennedy-Lugar Youth Exchange and Study (YES) program to lead projects in their communities.
As a YES alumnus, Abubakarr Sidique Konneh, the founder of Aion Health SL and Project Lead, envisioned EmpowerHER with Tech as a way to give back—transforming the leadership and global exposure he gained through YES into local impact.
Looking Ahead
After this pilot cohort, Aion Health SL plans to:
- Expand the program to rural districts and secondary schools
- Introduce certification tracks in AI and entrepreneurship
- Develop an online learning platform for ongoing access
- Connect top graduates to funding, internships, and job opportunities
Join Us in Empowering Women
When women are empowered with skills and support, entire families and communities flourish. EmpowerHER with Tech is not just a training—it's a movement for equality, opportunity, and progress.
📍 Learn more at www.aionhealthsl.org
📧 Contact: empowerher@aionhealthsl.org
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