A local craft entrepreneur is turning plastic waste, old clothing and discarded materials into income-generating skills for young people in Bolgatanga. Through her small business, UD Beads & More, founder Ursula Akuruku has trained more than 50 youth in beadwork and basket weaving, part of a growing push to promote creativity and self-reliance among vulnerable groups.
Ms. Akuruku, who began her craft business in Accra before returning to Bolgatanga, said she shifted to using recycled materials such as old jeans, plastic waste, and rubber because straw, traditionally used in baskets, has become scarce and expensive. “Using old jeans and plastic waste reduces cost, reduces waste, and still gives me strong, beautiful products,” she said.
Seeing limited opportunities for girls in her community, Ms. Akuruku began offering free training sessions. Her students now range from children as young as eight to young adults hoping to earn income or start a small business. Many, she said, cannot afford basic materials. “If I get support to buy beads, I give them to the children who want to learn. My goal is to empower them, not burden them,” she said.
Beyond craft skills, Ms. Akuruku uses her platform to encourage economic independence, especially for women. She urges women to rely on their abilities rather than depending entirely on men for financial stability. “God has given us hands, so why not use them?” she said. “Even people with formal jobs do business on the side. Work with what you have and create something for yourself.”
Ms. Akuruku said her own marriage reflects this philosophy. She works alongside her husband to support their home, a partnership she believes reduces conflict and increases mutual respect. “When children come, support from your partner may change. That’s when misunderstandings begin. But I support him, and he supports me,” she said.
As demand for skills training grows, UD Beads & More has become a small but influential center for youth empowerment in Bolgatanga. Ms. Akuruku hopes the initiative will continue to expand, helping more young people build livelihoods from creativity and resourcefulness. “If you don’t work, problems will come,” she said. “And no one wants to depend on someone who has nothing to do.”
Source: a1radioonline.com|101.1Mhz|Keziah Porepaya Nsoh|Bolgatanga
