EMSONI is pleased to welcome Abena as the lead worker of our inspiring futures project in Belfast in partnership with Rio Ferdinand Foundation and funded by BBC Children in Need and Youth Futures Foundation to create career pathways for our young people.
Abena joins our Inspiring Futures project having worked extensively in a volunteer capacity as a Project Coordinator for EMSONI across a range of projects. This knowledge and experience working with young people and families across a range of minority ethnic communities in Belfast – will be invaluable in helping the partnership and the project deliver long term impacts for our young people.
Originally from Ghana, Abena is currently studying at Queens University Belfast, and has a strong research interest in the role of BAME women in social action supporting young people.
Abena has been an inspiration to a lot of BAME young people in Northern Ireland to date, and her mentoring background has been a great advantage in connecting communities and families and building intercultural relationships.
Abena Gyamfuaa Aduse- Poku said:
“My experience working with the young ambassadors of EMSONI has revealed to me how our BAME teenagers lack opportunities, especially opportunities to grow their aspirations and build their skills for the future. The emergence of Covid-19 has exacerbated the situation, as networks and opportunities that were ongoing have been halted. I am happy that we have an opportunity to start to address these issues as we respond to the impact of Covid19 in the community. I am pleased to help support young people to access these opportunities, with this fantastic partnership between the Rio Ferdinand Foundation and EMSONI. Such a great way to begin the year!”
by EMSONI 
by EMSONI