In the heart of Ahwar District, Abyan Governorate, four young men- Mohammed Baharon, Abdullah Saeed, Abdullah Saleh, and Mohammed Ahmed- once lived in a remote area plagued by hardship and deprivation. The war had cast a long shadow over their community, leaving little room for opportunity, and as educational prospects vanished and daily life grew increasingly difficult, the horizon for these youth seemed bleak. Their dreams were slowly fading under the weight of reality.

Despite the crushing challenges, they held on to hope for a better future. Yet life offered them few choices-working in the fields or taking on irregular jobs was the only way to survive. As time passed, the difficulties deepened, but hope emerged unexpectedly.

Everything changed when they were selected to participate in the Supporting Resilient Livelihoods, Food Security, and Climate Adaptation in Yemen – Joint Programme (ERRYIII), implemented in 2024 by the Youth Leadership Development Foundation (YLDF) with funding from the European Union and the Government of Sweden, and in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). Over six months, the programme targeted several areas across Yemen, including Ahwar District, offering training in renewable energy and entrepreneurship- an opportunity that would ultimately rescue them from the grip of poverty.

The training was not just theoretical. It was an immersive experience that introduced them to practical concepts they had never imagined. Through the entrepreneurship component, they learned how to calculate project costs, plan effectively, assess the needs of their community, and develop solutions rather than simply seek employment. Most importantly, the training shifted their mindset.

“We used to think success was only for the lucky or the wealthy,” said Mohammed Baharon. “But we learned that proper planning and understanding can make all the difference.”

They began managing expenses more wisely, avoiding common startup mistakes like buying unnecessary equipment or failing to calculate costs accurately. They learned how to conduct market research and build ideas that served real community needs-not random ventures. “We started helping each other, discussing and sharing ideas. We no longer focus on problems-we think in terms of solutions. That’s a huge change for us,” Mohammed added.

Their journey continued with hands-on training in renewable energy, where they learned how to install and maintain solar systems, distinguish between various types of panels and batteries, and improve energy efficiency for sustainable projects. “We had no idea how many opportunities renewable energy could bring us until we joined this training. It opened our minds and changed our perspective completely,” he said. 

A Solar-Powered Sesame Press

Inspired by what they had learned, the four teamed up to develop a project proposal-drawing on both the technical and entrepreneurial skills they had gained. Their idea was selected for financial support, marking a major turning point in their lives.

Instead of continuing to search for jobs, they created something new and bold: the first solar-powered sesame press in their region-an innovative model that not only reduces costs compared to diesel-based presses but also allows for extended operating hours and greater long-term sustainability.

“This means we don’t have to worry about fuel shortages or rising prices,” one of them explained. “Solar energy will ensure our press is always running. It’s a reliable, cost-effective solution.”

Soon, the press began generating stable income-not just because of the solar system’s efficiency, but also because of their ability to deliver a quality product at an affordable price to their community. The young men now share responsibilities: from preparing sesame batches and managing the pressing process to bottling the oil and selling it at the local market.

Sesame is one of the most essential oil crops in Abyan and has long been used in traditional dishes. One popular treat is samsamia, a sweet made with sesame oil, roasted seeds, and sugar. Sesame oil is also widely used for making sesame bread and other staple meals. By modernizing this deeply rooted tradition, the young men added new value to a familiar product.

A Ripple Effect of Innovation

But the impact of the project didn’t stop at the press. As Abdullah Saeed explained: “Innovation is no longer limited to our project-it’s become a way of thinking. Now we see opportunities where we once saw obstacles.”

Their solar-powered sesame press quickly became a local sensation-the first of its kind in the district, sparking curiosity and admiration throughout the community. As neighbors began to notice the positive impact, they reached out for advice and support. The young men soon became a local source of knowledge and inspiration.

They now actively help others in their community understand how to integrate solar energy into their lives-whether to light their homes or operate small tools. “We support those around us in using renewable energy in their daily lives,” Abdullah added.          

What started as a training opportunity became a life-changing journey. Their experience with the programme was more than just skill-building-it was the beginning of a new future. Today, they are not only entrepreneurs but also symbols of resilience and inspiration in their community, proving that even in the darkest of circumstances, hope can grow.

In Ahwar, sesame presses are no longer just a means of income-they are symbols of innovation and transformation. And it all began with a chance, the right tools, and the belief that change was possible.