By Edna Frimpong, Founder of Shoe For The Shoeless

I grew up with my dad, a shoemaker, and at the age of 5, I’d follow him to his shop, fascinated by the smell of leather and the sound of hammers. As I watched him work, I began to learn the art of making shoes. But what struck me most was the stigma attached to women in shoemaking and other unconventional fields. People would often raise eyebrows, questioning why a girl like me was involved in such a “man’s job.” Despite the skepticism, I was determined to stay in the industry and thrive. I wanted to be an inspiration to every young girl out there, showing them that they too could pursue their passions, no matter how unconventional. As I worked with Ahofade, a Ghanaian brand that specializes in handmade products like shoes and smocks, I felt a sense of purpose. But I also felt a deep-seated desire to give back to my community. Years ago, someone had granted me a scholarship for my education, and I wanted to pay it forward.

This desire led to the birth of the “Shoe for the Shoeless” project. I realized that many children in Ghana lacked access to proper footwear, leading to injuries, infections, and reduced self-esteem. I knew I had to do something to help. With my shoemaking skills and passion for giving back, I set out to make a difference. In the first phase of my project, I donated 60 pairs of shoes, books I authored, and essential school supplies to children in need. This was made possible through my partnership with Cosmo Cosmetic.

My mission is simple: to provide 1000 pairs of shoes to underprivileged children in Ghana. It’s an ambitious goal, but I’m determined to make it happen.

Through “Shoe for the Shoeless,” I aim to restore dignity and confidence to these children, empowering them to attend school and pursue their dreams. It’s a small step, but one that I believe can have a profound impact.