Empowering young minds

In Addis Ababa, adolescents gather in small circles bi-weekly in their schools to talk openly about growing up, staying safe, and supporting one another. These community conversations are part of a national effort to prevent violence against children and give young people the space to learn about their rights, understand the changes they experience, and reflect on the challenges around them. Through dialogue, they build confidence, strengthen friendships, and discover the role they can play in protecting themselves and others. 

At the heart of each conversation is Bisrat Bayou, a dedicated social worker at the Addis Ababa Bureau of Women, Children, and Social Affairs, who guides the adolescents through all eleven sessions using Ethiopia’s national Violence Against Children Community Conversation Toolkit. Working closely with Tehadiso Primary School and the Woreda (District) Women, Children, and Social Affairs Office, he plans each discussion, creates a safe and respectful space, and ensures that every child’s voice is heard. Through his quiet coordination and consistent presence, Bisrat helps transform these circles of conversation into spaces of learning, protection, and empowerment.

For the students, Bisrat's sessions have a deep personal impact. When asked about their experiences, they speak not as passive participants, but as young individuals who are absorbing, questioning, and applying these lessons to their own lives. Here is what some of them had to say about the conversations and what they have learned.

“I want to be someone who helps to stop sexual violence and help those who are harmed.” 

Amir Doctor (13)

“The conversations help me understand how to protect myself from violence.”

Mekdes Argaw (14)

“Learning about adolescence helps me make sense of the changes in my body and feelings.”

Yeabsira Dereje (14)

“As a child, I know I may not always make the best choices. Listening to my parents helps, and as I grow older, I will become more confident.”

Fraol Taye (14)

“Helping at home doesn’t make a girl a woman. She is still a child. Understanding who a child is helps me understand myself better.”

Bezawit Abebe (13)

“Adolescence shows in our bodies. Knowing this helps me protect myself better.”

Hanan Mussa (13)

This World Social Work Month, we celebrate social workers like Bisrat who strengthen communities and help children grow in dignity and safety. These dedicated professionals are often the unseen backbone of child protection systems, working relentlessly to create environments where vulnerability is met with support and silence is replaced by open dialogue.