Reports and numbers can quantify impact, but the best testament to our programs around the world is seeing and hearing the people we work with share their stories.
These videos highlight the transformative power of our initiatives, from the vibrant pottery traditions upheld by women in Guatemala to the educational strides made by children in Somalia. Each story is a testament to the resilience and determination of communities seeking positive change.
Molding a future for women in Guatemala
In the Guatemalan village of Aldea Vale, the women of Alfarería Las Flores are preserving their pottery tradition while generating income. Supported by USAID’s Tejiendo Paz, this initiative strengthens cultural identity and provides economic opportunities. Watch how these talented artisans are shaping a brighter future for their community.
Nigerian children improve their reading at community reading centers
USAID’s LEARN to Read Activity is fostering foundational literacy in Nigeria. With 100 reading centers established in Bauchi State, over 5,000 children benefit from improved reading skills. This video showcases the impact of community-based education initiatives on young learners.
Agent of Change
Meet Rosa Isabel Melgar, a 19-year-old Agent of Change in Puerto Cortés, Honduras. Supported by USAID’s Sembrando Esperanza, Rosa Isabel is one of 1,500+ Agents of Change in 10 municipalities who are shaping their community’s vision for the future. This video highlights their efforts to drive positive changes and inspire others.
Nurturing livestock, building futures
La Laiterie du Berger is transforming the lives of Fulani herders in northern Senegal. With support from USAID’s West Africa Trade & Investment Hub, which closed in September 2024, the company provided regular income to over 2,300 herders, enabling them to settle, educate their children and improve milk production. Learn about La Laiterie du Berger’s innovative approach to food security through nutritious dairy and yogurt products and empowering the next generation of herders through their incubation training program.
How a literacy program became a life-sustaining activity
Explore the journey of the USAID-funded READ II activity in Ethiopia, which began as an early grade reading program and evolved into the Education Recovery Activity before closing in June 2024. Witness how it adapted to challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic and the northern Tigray conflict, ultimately providing crucial education support in crisis-affected regions. This video highlights the program’s significant impact on millions of children and educators across the country.
Connecting Ghana’s rural women to the international market
Meet Dora Torwiseh, a pivotal figure in Ghana’s Northern Region, who connects 80,000 women to the global shea butter market through the Nuts for Growth factory. Supported by USAID’s West Africa Trade & Investment Hub, this initiative boosts economic outcomes for rural women, empowering them with sustainable livelihoods. Learn how Dora’s leadership and business acumen are driving community development and economic growth.
Somali students in their own words
Hear from Somali students who have returned to the classroom through an accelerated basic education program supported by USAID’s Bar ama Baro program, which wrapped up in October 2024. More than 116,000 students enrolled over four years, gaining new educational opportunities. This video captures their personal stories and the impact of education on their lives and futures.
Gardening unites and empowers Garifuna women in Honduras
A community garden in Honduras is empowering Garifuna women. The Asociación de Mujeres Garífuna Mixta (ASOMUGAMIX) provides a space for women to organize, unite, and break free from cycles of victimization. Hear from Arely Ibeth Barahona Martinez and other members about the transformative power of their community garden. It was supported by USAID/OTI’s Central America Regional Initiative, which closed in July 2024.
Weathering extremes: Improving Nigeria’s farmland resilience
Learn about the innovative solutions strengthening Nigeria’s farmland resilience against climate change. Supported by the recently closed USAID West Africa Trade & Investment Hub, public-private partnerships are introducing climate-smart practices and technologies like regenerative agriculture and drip irrigation. Hear from experts like Samson Afolabi, Ph.D, on how these initiatives are helping small-plot farmers adapt and thrive.