Lola Hope Foundation Ghana launched to empower vulnerable youth

In a bid to provide opportunities for young people in the Greater Accra Region and beyond, Rev. Minister Latifa Adekanla, founder of Lola Hair and Beauty College, has established the Lola Hope Foundation Ghana to empower young and vulnerable individuals.

The foundation aims to support those who wish to pursue Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) but lack the financial and other essential support required to achieve their aspirations.

Speaking at the official launch of the foundation on Friday, 25th April, Rev. Latifa shared her journey and the inspiration behind the initiative. She revealed that she was able to attend secondary school thanks to the generosity of a sponsor, which paved the way for her success.

“I benefited from someone’s benevolence, I wouldn’t have gone to secondary school if not for someone who sponsored me,” she said. “I realised there are many people out there who need education, whether formal or informal, but have no one to help or guide them. That’s why we are launching the LOLA Hope Foundation.”

“This foundation will cater for vulnerable and underprivileged individuals who want to attend school but lack the means,” she added.

Rev. Latifa called on individuals and organisations to support her mission to positively impact the lives of those in need. She explained that the foundation will assist bright but financially disadvantaged students in accessing formal education at all levels.

For those interested in informal education, her LOLA Hair and Beauty College will provide vocational training in hairdressing, cosmetology, and other areas within the beauty industry.

She noted that even before the foundation’s official launch, several young people had already benefited from its educational support programme. Now, she is creating a platform for more people to join in and support the cause.

Rev. Latifa added that individuals interested in acquiring vocational skills will be supported through the Lola Beauty and Hair College or any other TVET institution, under the umbrella of the foundation.

Speaking to the media on the sidelines of the event, she highlighted that her vision aligns with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 1 and 8, aiming to reduce poverty and promote decent work and economic growth. “I want everyone to have something meaningful to do, which will help close the poverty gap,” she said.

At the launch of the foundation, she also officially inaugurated the Lola Hair and Beauty College.

The institution has been in operation for the past eight years and has seen hundreds of young people trained, many of whom are now self-employed across the Greater Accra Region and beyond.