Esther Ampo Semarco began interning with Future of Africa in February 2024 after discovering the organization through a friend. After exploring FOA’s website, she immediately felt connected to the mission and knew it was a movement she wanted to dedicate her time and energy to. Her passion deepened during an Outreach evening when street residents called her by name—a simple moment that demonstrated the depth of trust and meaningful relationships FOA has built with young people on the streets.
As a Facilitator, Development and Social Enterprises, Esther supports multiple aspects of FOA’s work. She manages operations at the FOA Hair Studio and tracks client progress, contributes to research for the Hometowns of Hope project, and assists in coordinating Outreach. She is especially passionate about youth engagement and development, and takes joy in witnessing residents grow—celebrating even the smallest milestones in their journeys.
Esther holds a Bachelor’s degree in Human Resource Management and Psychology from the University of Ghana and is a proud HOSA 2021 Awardee. Her experience interacting with people from all walks of life, including years spent helping at her mother’s shops, has shaped her strong interpersonal skills and ability to connect with others with empathy and understanding.
Outside of FOA, Esther enjoys action movies and series, curating great playlists, and embracing her role as a selective extrovert with a keen eye for detail. She brings warmth and positive energy everywhere she goes and is often described as the light of the room
Every moment a child is off the streets and in the classroom is another moment for the Future of Africa.
In August we hosted our Fresh Start Ceremony and it was one of those days that reminded us why we do this work. We celebrated exciting new beginnings of youth who once spent years on the street without hope and purpose.
We piloted art and music therapy during Wellness Wednesday and now street youth come attend outreach more often, stay engaged, and look forward to finishing projects and learning new dances.
Staff and volunteers recently underwent a professional development workshop where we’ve learned to respond with more compassion, understand trauma better, and support each youth in a way that helps them truly thrive.