History and Background
Founded in September 2021, Street Mentors Network was born out of a pressing need to support street children in Nigeria. The organization was inspired by a personal encounter of our Founder/Executive Director, Anita Michael, (Neeta Rare) with a homeless and hungry boy in the rain. Since its inception, SMN has been dedicated to transforming the lives of street children through various programs.
Achievements and Impact to Date
- Reached over 1000 vulnerable children in Akwa Ibom State directly and indirectly through its various programs.
- Impacted over 50 street children through alternative education, vocational training and rehabilitation.
- Runs an active temporary Shelter in Uyo that can accommodate 10 kids per program cycle
- Formed strong partnerships with key stakeholders such as the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Welfare, Child Protection Network Nigeria, Network against Child Trafficking Abuse and Labour (NACTAL), Theolight Global Foundation etc.
- Invited by the UNODC to attend the 2024 Stakeholders Dialogue on Trafficking in persons, Vienna, Austria.
- Formed the Akwa Ibom State Coalition for Street Children, 2024.