In the heart of Mbarara, the E.M.M.Y Vocational Skills Centre stands as a beacon of opportunity for vulnerable and underserved youth. It is not just a school — it is a launching pad into self-reliance, dignity, and a brighter future.

The centre was born out of a deep concern: too many youth in Uganda, especially girls and orphans, finish school (or drop out early) without any employable skills. With limited access to resources and few job opportunities, many become trapped in cycles of poverty. We realized that to break this cycle, we had to equip young people with something no one could take away — a skill.

At our vocational centre, youth are trained in a variety of practical trades: tailoring, catering, hairdressing, baking, mechanics, and carpentry. Classes are hands-on, interactive, and led by instructors who care deeply about not just the work but the soul of each student.

But what makes our training different is our holistic approach. Every morning starts with devotion and prayer. Students are mentored in character development, teamwork, and leadership. We do not just train the hands — we train the heart.

Another unique feature of our model is the transition-to-work support. After completion, students receive toolkits to start their own businesses or join existing teams. We’ve seen graduates open salons, start catering services, and join repair shops. Some have returned to train others, becoming leaders in their own right.

The centre has become a safe space — especially for young women who’ve faced abuse, rejection, or early motherhood. Here, they find more than skills; they find community, confidence, and purpose.

Every tool you donate, every machine you sponsor, every uniform you help stitch — it all contributes to this transformation. The Vocational Skills Centre is a living testimony that skills can change stories. And at E.M.M.Y, we’re just getting started.