Participating in the Better Breed Cameroon fellowship has been one of the most transformative experiences in my personal and professional journey. Over the course of six months, I was immersed in a well-structured training program that equipped me with the knowledge, skills, and confidence needed to become a more informed and effective changemaker. BBcam’s mission to empower young people to drive community change resonated deeply with me. It reminded me that youth are not just passive recipients of support but they are key players in building a better society, they are given the right tools, mentorship, and platforms to thrive.
One of the most outstanding aspects of this fellowship was the quality of the training we received. We were guided by highly skilled, experienced, and passionate facilitators, each specialized in their respective fields. Their practical approach, patience, and in-depth knowledge made every session not only informative but truly engaging. These professionals didn’t just lecture; they encouraged interaction, critical thinking, and real-world application of every concept. Their commitment to our growth was evident, and their insights will continue to shape how I approach development work going forward.
Through six comprehensive modules, each rich in content and relevance , I explored essential themes in nonprofit leadership and youth development. Module 1 introduced me to civil society and the nonprofit sector, highlighting how organizations outside of government play a critical role in advocating for justice, transparency, and social equity. This foundation gave me a deep appreciation for the power of collective voice and the importance of holding governments accountable. In Module 2, I discovered the principles of Positive Youth Development and how programs tailored to youth needs can guide us into successful adulthood. The emphasis on Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs helped me understand that meaningful growth begins when young people feel safe, supported, and valued.
One of the most eye-opening lessons came from Module 3, where I learned about research for advocacy. I now understand that meaningful advocacy starts with knowledge , through literature reviews, problem mapping, and data analysis. This module empowered me to look deeper into societal problems, recognize their root causes, and develop strategic responses that influence policy. Similarly, Module 4 on strategic communication taught me how to craft impactful messages for nonprofit audiences. I learned the importance of tailoring my message, choosing the right communication channel, and using storytelling to connect emotionally with different groups, from youth and parents to donors and decision-makers.
Another major highlight was Module 5, which covered financial management and resource mobilization. This module gave me practical tools to plan for sustainability within a nonprofit setting, including how to write strong grant proposals, manage donor relationships, and ensure accountability through effective budgeting. I especially valued learning about the donor engagement lifecycle and the Theory of Change, both of which helped me understand how to structure and sustain a social impact initiative. The concept of social enterprises also opened my eyes to new, innovative ways to maintain long-term funding for nonprofit work.
The final module that is Module 6: Monitoring, Evaluation, and Impact Assessment for Nonprofit Organisations was a powerful conclusion to the fellowship. It emphasized that running a nonprofit isn’t just about activity delivery, but about tracking, learning, and improving. I learned that monitoring is the continuous process of collecting and analyzing information to assess whether project activities are going as planned, while evaluation helps determine the outcomes and impact of those activities. When combined, monitoring and evaluation does not only improve project performance but also help to measure final results clearly and make evidence-based decisions.
One key takeaway was the importance of setting SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound) . By using SMART indicators, I can assess progress effectively and stay aligned with project goals. I also gained skills in designing tools such as surveys and outcome indicators to measure the real impact of interventions. This module showed me that impact assessment is not only essential for donor accountability but also a tool for continuous learning and meaningful change. I now view monitoring and evaluation as a vital part of program success, helping me remain focused, strategic, and responsive in any future nonprofit work.
As I complete the fellowship, I carry with me a renewed sense of purpose and clarity. This program didn’t just teach me theory , it challenged me to apply what I learned and think critically about the change I want to see in my community. It has impacted me deeply, both as a young leader and as a future founder of a nonprofit organization. I now have the confidence to pursue impactful work, lead advocacy campaigns, and build sustainable programs that address real needs. Going forward, I plan to stay connected with the BBcam community, implement the lessons I’ve learned, and inspire others to realize that youth have the power to shape their world when given the chance.
Hadidja Abba, BBcam fellow