Breaking the Cycle of Hardship one Life at a Time

In Ethiopia, rural-urban migration has surged in recent years, with many young people moving to cities like Addis Ababa in search of better opportunities. However, the reality of city life is often far different from the expectations that lead them to leave their homes. Many migrants are faced with a harsh and unfamiliar environment, struggling to secure employment, access government support, or even find a place to stay. Their dreams of a better life quickly give way to the harsh realities of life on the streets.

Michael is one of these young migrants. At just 17 years old, he left his hometown in the Wolayta Zone, hoping to escape the economic hardships in his community. Like many others, he believed the city would offer a brighter future. But instead, he found himself lost in the chaotic streets of Addis Ababa, overwhelmed by the fast pace of life, the language barrier, and the unfamiliar customs. His dreams began to unravel as he struggled to survive, and soon, he found himself relying on begging for food and money just to get by.

As the days turned into weeks, and the uncertainty of street life took its toll, Michael began to regret his decision. He was too proud to reach out to his family, fearing their worry. The nights were the hardest, filled with sleepless hours spent watching for any danger. He wondered whether it would be better to return home, or to keep pushing forward, unsure of what the future held.

Then, something remarkable happened. Michael was introduced to the SOS Children’s Villages in Ethiopia Reaching Out to Children on the Streets Project, an initiative that has quickly gained momentum and is making a real impact. In just two years, the project has already reached over 3,000 participants in cities like Addis Ababa, Adama, and Dire Dawa. Through this life-changing project, Michael found unexpected support, including valuable life skills training. Now, just like Dawit, who was once in a similar situation, Michael has become one of the many to benefit from this incredible project.

He learned essential skills such as self-esteem building, decision-making, and goal setting. The training not only helped him rebuild his confidence but also connected him with other young migrants who were facing similar struggles. For the first time in a long while, Michael realized he was not alone. Some of the people he met helped him improve his language skills, while others offered him a place to stay, giving him the stability he needed to get back on his feet.

With the guidance and resources provided by SOS Children’s Villages in Ethiopia, Michael received start-up capital to launch his own small business. After consulting with his new friends and mentors, he decided to open a kiosk like movable shop, selling essential items such as biscuits, bottled water, candy, masks, plastic bags, and pens. Most items that people would need as they passed by. The investment of 15,000 ETB was a turning point in his life, as it provided him with an opportunity to support himself.

Michael at his kiosk

The support did not stop at the initial setup. Michael continued to receive encouragement and practical assistance, ensuring he could make the most of his new business. Today, his shop has become a symbol of his hard work and resilience. He earns around 5,000 ETB each month, a steady income that has allowed him to save 7,000 ETB in the bank a big achievement considering his previous situation.

Michael's journey is a testament to the power of the Reaching out to Children on the Streets Project. His journey transitioning from life on the streets and uncertainty to becoming a self-sufficient entrepreneur highlights the transformative impact of support, training, and community. For Michael, his dream of a better life has now become a reality. Not only has the project helped him achieve his goal of finding stability in the city, but it has also given him peace of mind, helping him overcome the initial shock he faced upon arrival.

Michael’s journey does not end here. He now looks to the future with ambition. He dreams of expanding his shop and increasing his income, hoping to support his family back in Wolayta. His story is one of hope, resilience, and transformation, and it highlights the incredible potential of young migrants when given the right opportunities and guidance.

Michael's story shines as a beacon of hope, but not every migrant is as fortunate. As rural-urban migration continues to rise, many young people find themselves in similar struggles, fighting to survive on the streets. This is why SOS Children’s Villages in Ethiopia is dedicated to creating more opportunities for young migrants and children who are forced to live on the streets due to various circumstances. Through programmes like the Family Strengthening, SOS Children’s Villages in Ethiopia works to address the root causes of these challenges by providing training, counseling, healthcare access, and income support. These efforts are breaking the cycle of hardship, one life at a time.

*To respect the person's privacy, their real name has not been used.