School girls at Centre Féminin d’Initiation et d’Apprentissage aux Métiers (CFIAM) mechanic school in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso.

“I want to tell other girls, do not sit and do nothing! There’s lots to do for you.” Emile Nikiema, 18 years old.

“In today’s world there isn’t a man’s job. I find this work easy, it doesn’t hurt. “ Samiratou Ilboudo, 17 years old.

“Boys tell us to be in retail, hairdressing, couture, but others are more encouraging. Those are the ones I listen to”. Julienne Sawadogo, 15 years old.

„Sometime boys will test you, say „no leave the battery, it is too heavy, you can not do it”. But, you have to do it, you have to push yourself”. Elodie Nikiema, 17 years old.

“I wanted to be a seamstress, but my big sister said that painting metal sheets was better, she did not lie!” Carine Laure Zougrana, 15 years old.

“At first, they told me that it was a man’s job. But I said, I’ll try. The boys are not easy, but you show yourself tough”. Denis Sam, 18 years old

“I already have a job, and my parents are relieved. It is difficult, but you can earn a living. Everyone can do it, girl or boy.” Matene Ouattara, 18 years old