Meet Mrs. Tessy Enahoro, the powerhouse behind Concern for Women and Youth Empowerment (COWOYEM), a Delta State-based NGO with a nearly two-decade legacy of transforming lives. Enahoro’s journey from a passionate advocate to the Executive Director of an internationally recognized organization is one of resilience, determination, and unwavering commitment to the most vulnerable in society. In this interview with Rita Oyiboka, she shares the story behind COWOYEM’s founding, the challenges faced, and the successes that fuel her drive to continue making a difference.
Can you introduce yourself?
I’m Tessy Enahoro, and I currently serve as the Executive Director of Concern for Women and Youth Empowerment (COWOYEM) in Delta State.
What does COWOYEM do?
Our work primarily revolves around health issues, but we’re also deeply involved in tackling trafficking, protecting children, and advocating for human rights. Our target groups include women, children, youth, and, importantly, men as well.
If you target men, why aren’t they included in the group’s name?
While our name emphasizes women and youth, our work certainly includes men. The term “youth” covers both genders, ensuring that our programs are inclusive.
What inspired you to start an NGO?
My inspiration stems from experiences I had while growing up. I witnessed things that fueled a deep desire to fight for others, especially those who are marginalized. This passion has been with me since childhood, and it was reinforced by my mother, who worked as a civil servant. Hearing about her experiences at work solidified my decision to work for myself, and not under someone else, so I could fully dedicate myself to this cause. COWOYEM was officially established in 2007, and since then, we’ve been committed to advocating for the underprivileged.
Did you start your NGO with COWOYEM, or did you have experience with other organizations first?
I started by working with another NGO called Girls Power Initiative. I believe you can’t just jump into something without understanding the prprocess, so this experience was invaluable. After learning the ropes there, I founded COWOYEM, focusing on areas not already covered by other organizations. For example, we’ve concentrated heavily on health issues in Delta State, while also expanding our reach with a new branch in Benin.
COWOYEM is almost 20 years old. How has the journey been so far?
The journey hasn’t been easy, especially in the beginning. For the first 10 to 12 years, it was incredibly challenging. We often had to walk long distances and use roadside buses to reach communities, as we didn’t have the funds for proper transportation. After completing our work, we would trek back, covered in dust, sometimes using sachet water to clean our feet. Our big break came when UNICEF recognized our efforts and started collaborating with us, which opened the door to further international partnerships.
What other international organizations have you partnered with?
We’ve worked with several major organizations, including UNICEF, the International Organization for Migration (IOM), USAID, and the Global Fund. Within Nigeria, we’ve collaborated with entities like SUBEB, the Ministry of Women Affairs, and the Ministry of Health.
What differences have you noticed between working with local and international organizations?
International organizations tend to build your capacity before giving you an assignment. For example, when K-Palladium entrusted us with a TB project, they provided extensive training on proposal writing and institutional support. This contrasts with the limited support we often receive from state or national bodies. The impact of international partnerships on COWOYEM has been profound and far-reaching.
You mentioned working on human trafficking, especially regarding women and girls. What has your organization done in this area?
Human trafficking is a significant issue, especially in Delta State. Initially, the former state government didn’t take it seriously, but we eventually managed to gain support from him through the former Commissioner of Women Affairs, Late Rev. Omoshola William. Through partnerships, particularly with IOM, we’ve raised awareness about the dangers of trafficking and irregular migration. Delta State was ranked second in human trafficking burden in Nigeria, and with the immediate past governor’s support, we made significant progress in tackling the issue. We also work on reintegration, providing returnees with business skills training and helping them start anew.
COWOYEM has grown significantly since its inception. What’s the key ingredient to this success?
Our growth can be attributed to our unwavering commitment to the cause. From the beginning, we’ve been driven by a deep passion for making a difference. We’ve always tailored our interventions to meet the specific needs of our target groups, which, combined with strategic partnerships and the ability to adapt, has fueled our success.
Is there a specific process for starting an NGO?
Starting an NGO is anything but linear. It requires passion, vision, and a deep understanding of the issues you want to address. My journey began with firsthand experiences that ignited my desire to help others. I first worked with another NGO to learn the intricacies before establishing COWOYEM in 2007. The process involves identifying gaps, building a strong team, securing funding, and, most importantly, persistence.
Let’s talk about funding. How has your organization managed this?
Funding is always a challenge, but we’ve been fortunate to build strong relationships with both local and international partners. We started with very limited resources, but our breakthrough came when UNICEF began collaborating with us. Managing funds effectively is crucial, and we ensure transparency and accountability in all our operations. This has helped build trust with our donors and partners.
What’s the hardest part of running an NGO?
The hardest part is sustaining momentum in the face of challenges. We constantly grapple with funding constraints, logistical hurdles, and the emotional toll of working with vulnerable populations. Keeping our team motivated and ensuring their safety are daily obstacles. But the impact we see in the communities we serve makes all the struggles worthwhile.
In your experience, what strategies are most effective for fostering long-term change in women and youth empowerment?
Long-term change requires a multi-faceted approach. It’s not just about providing immediate support; it’s about building capacity and fostering self-reliance. We focus on education, skills development, and creating opportunities for economic independence. Engaging community leaders ensures our initiatives are culturally sensitive and have local buy-in.
How do you measure the success of your initiatives beyond just numbers?
Success is more than just numbers; it’s about the transformations we see in people’s lives. For example, when a trafficking victim becomes a successful entrepreneur, that’s a success. We also consider the ripple effects of our work—how our interventions strengthen families, improve community resilience, and inspire others.
Nigeria and Delta State face a high burden of tuberculosis. What role does your organization play in addressing this health crisis?
Tuberculosis is a major health challenge, and we’re deeply involved in tackling it, especially among vulnerable groups. Our TB budget and awareness project, supported by international partners like K-Palladium, has been instrumental in reaching communities that are often overlooked. We also work closely with local health authorities to ensure that those affected receive the care they need.
The stigma surrounding TB often prevents people from seeking early treatment. How is your organization addressing this?
We address stigma through targeted public education campaigns that focus on dispelling myths and providing accurate information. By engaging community leaders and influencers, we shift perceptions and encourage early treatment. We also ensure confidentiality and support for TB patients, creating a safe environment for them to access care without fear of judgment.
What are some of your biggest achievements in nearly two decades of running an NGO?
One of our proudest achievements is the tangible impact we’ve had on the lives of women, youth, and children in Delta State. From rescuing trafficking victims to providing empowerment and healthcare to those in need, our work has touched thousands of lives. Establishing a strong network of partnerships with international organizations like UNICEF and IOM has been a significant milestone, as well as opening a branch in Benin City.
As you reflect on your journey, what legacy do you hope to leave through your work with COWOYEM?
I hope to leave a legacy of empowerment and lasting change. My vision is for COWOYEM to continue being a beacon of hope for women, youth, and children long after I’m gone. I want our work to inspire future generations to continue fighting for justice, equality, and opportunity for all. If, in the future, more women are leading in their communities, more youth are thriving, and fewer children are at risk, then I will consider my mission accomplished.
What are your plans for the future of COWOYEM?
Looking ahead, we plan to expand our reach and deepen our impact in the communities we serve. We aim to establish more branches in other states. We’re also working on diversifying our funding sources to ensure sustainability. Another focus area is strengthening our advocacy efforts, particularly in influencing policy at the state and national levels. We want to ensure that the voices of women, youth, and children are heard in decision-making processes that affect their lives.
What advice would you give to someone looking to start an NGO?
First and foremost, you need to be passionate about the cause you’re advocating for. Starting an NGO is not easy, and it’s that passion that will keep you going when challenges arise. Secondly, be prepared to start small. Don’t be discouraged by limited resources; instead, focus on making a difference with what you have. Building a strong network is also crucial, connect with like-minded individuals and organizations that can support your mission. Lastly, stay true to your vision and be patient. Change takes time, and the impact of your work might not be immediately visible, but persistence will pay off in the long run.
How do you balance the emotional demands of your work with your personal life?
Balancing the emotional demands of running an NGO with personal life is one of the most challenging aspects of this work. Over the years, I’ve learned the importance of self-care. I make sure to take time out for myself and my family, which helps me recharge and stay focused. Surrounding myself with a strong support system both at work and at home has been invaluable. I also find solace in knowing that the work we do is making a difference, which helps me stay grounded even during the toughest times.
What message do you have for the women and youth of Nigeria, especially those facing challenges?
My message to the women, men, and youth of Nigeria is simple: Never give up on yourself. No matter how tough things get, remember that you have the strength to overcome any challenge. Seek out growth opportunities and never stop learning. Surround yourself with positive influences and be open to asking for help when you need it. Most importantly, believe in your potential and don’t let anyone tell you that you can’t achieve your dreams. The future belongs to those who are willing to fight for it.
