By TROY MUKUPA
In a heartwarming display of initiative and compassion, 10-year-old child model and gymnast Vanessa Chola has launched her “Skills of Hope” project, aimed at empowering young people from disadvantaged backgrounds. As the 1st runner-up of Mini Miss Africa 2025, Vanessa has utilized her platform to make a positive impact in her community.
The “Skills of Hope” project is designed to equip underprivileged children aged 7 to 15 with practical, creative, and entrepreneurial skills, enabling them to generate income and build confidence. The initiative kicked off with a bead-making workshop, where Vanessa invited eight girls from the House of Joy Orphanage to learn this valuable skill.
Vanessa’s vision for the “Skills of Hope” project is to inspire hope, self-confidence, and future opportunities for children from disadvantaged backgrounds, helping them realize their potential and break the cycle of poverty. “My dream is to give underprivileged children access to opportunities that will help them build confidence, independence, and hope for a brighter future,” Vanessa said.
The project has several key objectives, including skill building, creativity and expression, entrepreneurial mindset, mentorship, and community impact. These objectives are designed to provide hands-on training in practical life skills, foster creativity, introduce entrepreneurial concepts, create a network of mentors, and build a sustainable program that benefits both individual children and their communities.
“I’m calling on the corporate world to join hands with me in this movement. By supporting the ‘Skills of Hope’ project, we can collectively empower underprivileged children with the skills they need to thrive. Together, we can build a brighter future for these young minds and help them unlock their full potential,” Vanessa urged, stressing the need for collective action.
Belleza Talent Agency, a platform that has nurtured young talents like Vanessa, has expressed pride in her initiative. “We take immense pride in grooming our young talents to be confident, skilled, and socially conscious,” said Ms. Lindiwe Kasonde, a representative of the agency. “Vanessa Chola’s ‘Skills of Hope’ project is a true reflection of this mission, and a testament to the impact that young people can have when given the opportunity to lead and make a difference. We’re proud to support her project and look forward to seeing the positive change it will bring to the lives of underprivileged children.”
As Vanessa continues on this journey, her dedication and creativity serve as an inspiration to many. With the “Skills of Hope” project, she is not only empowering underprivileged children but also demonstrating the impact that young leaders can have on their communities.
