Members of AHF Haiti’s Girls Act program found refuge from the cycles of violence, displacement, and hunger with recent fun and educational leather bag-making workshops, gaining skills to help them achieve financial independence and paving the way for a brighter, safer future.

Thirty-eight girls participated in the workshops that spanned two months. The sessions were hosted by a local successful businesswoman who donated her time and wisdom to give the girls the confidence and skills they need to help escape power imbalances in their lives that contribute to higher risks of HIV, other STIs, and unplanned pregnancies.

Girls Act Haiti, one of nearly 40 Girls Act programs worldwide, provides essential skills and business training—supporting girls’ empowerment at a time when most Haitian schools are closed due to civil unrest.

View more photos from the events here.