In the heart of the Northwest region of Cameroon, a transformative initiative is taking root, one that aims to empower vulnerable young people living with HIV through skill development and economic sustainability. One haircut, one stitch, one skill at a time, 10 young people living with HIV selected to be trained in Income Generating Activities received the Equality project team in their training centers. This team’s main goal, supervise the trainees to ensure they are fully engaged in their activities. This took place recently in several parts of Bamenda and Santa, all within the Northwest region.

The Cameroon Baptist Convention (CBC) Health Services, through its Equality Project, is committed to addressing health inequalities and enhancing the livelihoods of these adolescents. As the program unfolds, the importance of thorough supervision of Income Generating Activities (IGAs) becomes increasingly evident, ensuring the success of these young trainees and paving the way for future opportunities. This oversight not only holds trainers accountable but also reassures the adolescents that they are supported in their journey toward independence.

Beyond Treatment: The Power of Livelihoods

According to UNAIDS, in 2023, there were nearly 12,000 young people (aged 15-24) living with HIV in the Northwest region, many facing stigma, poverty, and a lack of opportunity. The Equality Project recognized that antiretroviral therapy alone wasn’t enough. True empowerment meant creating pathways to financial independence. For many adolescents living with HIV in Cameroon, the daily battle is not just about managing their health, it’s about finding hope, dignity, and a place in society. The stakes are high. Many young people face not only health challenges but also economic instability, which exacerbates their vulnerabilities. That’s where Income Generating Activities (IGAs) come in: practical, hands-on training in trades like hairdressing, tailoring, and mechanics, designed to give young people the skills and confidence to build a future.

The Need for Supervision

But training alone isn’t enough. Ensuring that this investment translates into real change requires careful, ongoing supervision. “Initiatives like these can only be sustained when there’s accountability at every step,” says Mrs. Anangkeng Justine, Equality Project Coordinator with the CBC Health Services. “Our job is to make sure trainers are delivering the curriculum as promised, business plans are being followed, and, most importantly, the young people are truly gaining the skills and confidence they need.” Field supervision, which began in March 2025, involves hands-on visits, assessments of business plans and record-keeping, and honest conversations with both trainers and trainees. This process not only holds everyone accountable but also motivates the young people to take their training seriously, knowing that someone cares about their progress.

Change makers, Action takers

James, one of the program’s dedicated trainees, chose to focus on haircuts and shaving for both men and women. For him, the training has been life-changing. “The training has really helped me. It has made me stable. I have learned a lot of difficult styles. Also, I have learned how to be with people, since relating with people is key to this profession,” he shares, his voice steady with newfound confidence. “I want to be independent, to have my own place, to meet my wants and needs, and help others like me become better people as well.” “I am very privileged to be part of this project, and I promise that their efforts will not be in vain,” he ended.

Mr. Arnold, James’ trainer and owner of a local barbing salon, recognizes the potential in his trainees. “I have seen this young man’s zeal; he is doing a very good job”.

Another trainee, Elsie, beams with pride as she talks about her journey. “This training has helped me realize I have skills, and that I am capable enough to take care of myself,” she says. Her dream is to open her own African fabric “marking” workshop. “A very big thank you to the funders. I promise not to fail them, and I pray they are able to continue helping many other young people.”

The Path Forward

The ongoing field supervision aims to assess the implementation of the training curriculum, evaluate trainers’ business plans, and identify challenges faced by both trainers and trainees. The expected results include ensuring adherence to training guidelines, fostering accountability between trainers and CBCHS, and ultimately empowering these young individuals to achieve financial independence. And perhaps most importantly, the success of this round of training opens the door for more vulnerable young people to benefit. Each success story is a building block for broader change, proving that with the right support, young people living with HIV can thrive, not just survive.