Saka was a bright boy at school, but at 11 years old when his dad died, his life quickly fell apart. As a means of providing for her family, Saka’s mother re-married, but Saka did not get on with his new step-dad and ran away. He came to Addis Ababa and survived on the streets the best way he could: stealing food, begging and sleeping rough. The days rolled into months, and the months rolled into years, until 5 years later with no education he had a bleak future ahead of him.

Late one evening two Retrak outreach workers approached him and his friends at the bus station. They got chatting and Saka was impressed that they were not afraid of his dirty appearance, but seemed interested in them and wanted to help. One day he plucked up the courage to ask them if they could help him move away from street life.

Saka greatly enjoyed the programme and renewed his interest in school lessons. One day, in the drop-in centre, as he chatted about what he hoped for the future, a Retrak member of staff, explained that soon there would be training starting for street children to learn about setting up their own small business. Saka thought this over and understood that at 17 years old his chance of finishing school was low. Saka decided to go ahead with the training and his fears of failing academically were allayed because it was such a practical hands-on course. He graduated from the training and excitedly made plans to start a mini-shop with his ‘seed corn’ money provided by Retrak.

In August 2009 he put his plans into action, buying a small push cart and some basic items to stock his little shop. Saka has never looked back! He is now making a small profit each month and reports that he is planning to buy a TV and a smart pair of jeans! Saka’s life has been completely turned around, from a life of desperation and poverty on the streets, to a stable, successful and fulfilling life. Saka has now inspired more street children at Retrak to do the Street Business Training.

*Children’s names have been changed and they are all happy for us to share their story with you