In a world where opportunities often seem reserved for the privileged, Project REY (REMAR Empowering Youth) is proving that the power of education, mentorship, and determination can break the cycle of poverty and offer hope to some of the most vulnerable young people in Ghana, Liberia, and beyond.
A vision for change: The story of Samaira De
The journey of Project REY began in 2023, driven by the passion of a remarkable young woman—Samaira De, a senior at Lincoln Community School in Accra.
Inspired by a vision to equip marginalised youth with life-changing digital skills, Samaira co-founded the initiative in partnership with REMAR Ghana, an organisation dedicated to rehabilitating orphaned and street children, many of whom struggle with addiction.
The collaboration started with a simple but impactful mission: provide young people in REMAR homes with basic computer literacy, a skill set that would steer them away from the dangers of drug abuse and into the possibilities of meaningful work.
Samaira’s inspiration stemmed from a pivotal meeting with Pastor Valentin, Director of REMAR Ghana, and her own desire to create lasting change.
"I decided to join the project because I find it interesting, and it has helped me—first of all, to reduce my temper, and it has equipped me in IT," says Emmanuel Ampofoh, 19, a beneficiary of the programme.
"When it comes to IT, I am now able to use systems.
I can now create software, multitask, and escalate issues. I am now good."
Emmanuel, a student from Nsawam Senior High School, has spent the last 15 years in REMAR Tema Children’s Home. Thanks to Project REY, his life has taken a different direction.
"Before this, I didn’t know anything about computers. Now, I am confident and looking forward to a future where I can help others," he added.
Through its real-world syllabus, shaped by partnerships with tech companies, the program has opened doors for Emmanuel and others like him, ensuring they are not just learning but also gaining valuable skills that meet industry needs.
A ripple effect of change
In an interview with Graphic Online, Samaira on Thursday, Project REY’s growth has been swift and impactful. In just three years, the programme has enabled 8 boys in Ghana and Liberia to secure stable, meaningful employment.
Notably, the initiative, according to Samaira has received widespread support from the community, with 12 laptops donated to ensure students have the necessary tools to learn and grow.
And when a shortage of laptops threatened to slow progress, Samaira organised community laptop drives across Ghana, uniting schools and individuals in the effort to keep the program going.
She said one of the key components of Project REY’s success is its mentorship model.
“Students who have benefited from the programme are now passing on their knowledge to others, creating a cycle of empowerment.
These mentors, often students from other Ghanaian schools, have become critical to the program’s expansion” she said.
Also, Samaira’s own journey of mentorship has inspired other students to become leaders.
As she traveled to REMAR Liberia, she mentored youth there, laying the groundwork for Project REY’s extension to other REMAR homes in West Africa.
“The mentorship model has become a vital element of the initiative, ensuring that each participant has not only the technical skills but also the support and guidance they need to succeed”, she added.
Transforming lives: The stories of Emmanuel and others
Emmanuel's transformation is not an isolated case. In just a short time, Project REY has given many young boys like him the tools to rebuild their lives.
Kwame, another 18-year-old trainee from REMAR, shared his story of how the programme has impacted him: “Before, I was caught up in things that weren’t helping me.
Now, I can see a future—one where I can work, support my family, and have the life I always dreamed of.”
Like Emmanuel, Kwame’s newfound confidence is rooted in the skills he has gained through the initiative.
What started as a small effort in Ghana has now reached beyond borders, and Samaira’s ambitious vision to expand Project REY to REMAR homes worldwide is taking shape.
The foundation laid in Ghana and Liberia is only the beginning. Samaira's work is a reminder that one person, even from a humble beginning, can create a ripple of change that spreads far and wide.
A bright future ahead
As Pastor Valentin of REMAR Ghana puts it: “Thanks to Samaira’s initiative, I now have 8 boys working in Ghana and Liberia.
My boys now have hope and dreams of doing something meaningful with their lives. I am thankful to Samaira for her support.”
“The impact of Project REY is undeniable.
By providing marginalised youth with education, mentorship, and real-world skills, it is giving them not just a job, but the tools for a better life.
As Samaira continues to expand her programme, the future looks brighter for countless young people who once had little hope”, he added.
Through the combined efforts of passionate individuals, supportive communities, and innovative partnerships, Project REY is turning dreams into reality—one skill, one mentor, and one job at a time.
For Emmanuel, Kwame, and others, this is just the beginning of a new chapter filled with possibility and promise.
Samaira’s vision continues to inspire change, reminding us that sometimes, all it takes is one person’s determination to light the way for many.
