Knowing what a life skill means is a beginning. A girl also needs to recognise when she might use it: during a disagreement, under pressure, when making a decision or when something does not go to plan.
Black Eve Foundation delivers life skills education through guided sessions for girls and young women of African heritage. We teach abilities such as self-awareness, communication, emotional regulation, empathy, critical and creative thinking, goal setting and problem-solving through situations they can recognise from everyday life.
Learning through discussion and action
Each session focuses on a skill and gives girls opportunities to think, speak, listen and apply what they are learning. A facilitator introduces the idea, asks questions, guides discussion and uses activities or examples to help the group examine how the skill works in real situations.
The learning does not end with the session. Girls are encouraged to notice the skill in their own lives and take a manageable next step. Over time, they can begin to draw on different skills together rather than treating each one as a separate lesson.
Life skills through BE Clubs
BE Clubs provide a regular setting for this learning. Girls come together to explore life skills, learn from one another and take part in the life of their club. The group gives them opportunities to communicate, work together, take responsibility and contribute ideas as they learn.
Working with schools and organisations
Black Eve also works with schools and organisations to bring life skills education to girls in their care. Sessions can be shaped around the age of the group and the situations they face, while keeping the same purpose: helping girls develop abilities they can use beyond the session.
We do not expect one lesson to change a life. Life skills grow through teaching, learning and intentional use. Our aim is to make that learning regular, relevant and practical, so girls and young women are better prepared to live with themselves, live with others and make choices about their futures.