As a CorpsAfrica Volunteer, one of the most rewarding experiences is watching a simple activity turn into a life-changing opportunity. That’s exactly what happened during a baking training session I recently facilitated in my community. What began as a hands-on lesson in making baked goods became a powerful step toward self-employment and empowerment especially for youth and women eager to build a better future.

In many rural communities, unemployment is a constant challenge. Formal jobs are limited, and young people and women often struggle to find sustainable sources of income. But during this training, I saw firsthand how practical skills like baking can offer hope. Participants learned how to measure ingredients, prepare dough, bake, and even package their products in a way that would appeal to local customers. Beyond the technical skills, there was something even more powerful happening,confidence was being built.

As the smell of freshly baked goods filled the room, the conversation shifted to ideas of starting small businesses, forming baking groups or selling at markets and school events. Some participants shared dreams of saving money to buy their own equipment and ingredients. Others discussed how they could use baking as a stepping stone to support their families. It was a reminder that self-employment doesn’t always require big capital sometimes, it just takes a skill and the belief that it’s possible.

By the end of the training, each participant left with more than just knowledge, they left with inspiration. And for me, it reinforced the value of community-led development that meets people where they are and builds on their potential.

Let’s continue creating spaces where  skills become solutions, investing in practical, hands-on trainings that give youth and communities the tools to thrive. If you believe in the power of small steps leading to big change, skills like baking may seem small, but they hold the potential to create big change. Together we can turn local talents into local enterprises.One donut at a time!!!