A Second Chance for Mariam: Saved from Forced Marriage Thanks to Femmes Plus

Mariam lived in the village of Koupéla, located in the department of Bouaflé. Like many young girls from modest backgrounds, she simply dreamed of going to school, learning a profession, and building a better future. But very early in her life, those dreams nearly came to an end. Just before reaching adulthood, Mariam learned that her family had decided to force her into marriage with a much older man. This forced marriage would have ended her childhood, her education, and all her hopes for the future. Without the freedom to choose her own path, she found herself facing a life imposed on her, filled with fear and silence. That was when Femmes Plus stepped in. Through our support program and our sewing and fashion training institute, Mariam was welcomed, protected, and supported. For the first time, she found a safe place where she could be heard, encouraged, and guided toward rebuilding her life. At our training center, Mariam learned the profession of sewing. Day after day, behind her sewing machine, she slowly regained confidence in herself. What first appeared to be simple vocational training became a new beginning for her. She no longer saw only fabric and needles — she saw hope and a possible future. Today, Mariam is an independent young woman, full of dignity and hope. She now has professional skills, a source of income, and above all, the freedom to choose her own life. Her story is a powerful example of how education and vocational training can transform the life of a vulnerable girl. Through its sewing and fashion training institute, Femmes Plus works every day to offer a second chance to young girls facing difficult situations, including violence, poverty, and early or forced marriage. We believe that by giving a girl the opportunity to learn and become independent, we restore not only her dignity, but also her power to shape her own future.