Judith Kokui, founder of the Restored and Renewed Center, has been nominated for the MTN Heroes of Change initiative for her tireless efforts in helping women overcome addiction.
Her center, the first all-female rehabilitation center in Ghana, has helped reunite over 30 families and provided a safe space for women to recover from substance use disorders.
According to Judith, “Witnessing another person overcome addiction is truly one of the best experiences. Recovery represents life, and I feel so excited and happy whenever someone achieves it.”
Judith’s motivation for establishing the center stems from her experience working in the field of addiction since 2009. She noticed a significant disparity in facilities catering to men versus women, with some centers having as many as 72 spaces for men but only 12 for women.
The Restored and Renewed Center offers therapy sessions, focusing on the 12-Steps Program and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). Judith explains, “Cognitive behavioral therapy helps individuals address the underlying causes that may have contributed to their substance use disorder. It also teaches them how to identify, avoid, and manage situations that could lead to relapse.”
Kudjoe Azumah, Judith’s husband and nominator, praises her dedication and selflessness. “She loves her work and is doing it well. She’s making a significant impact… Sometimes I feel happy, and sometimes I feel sad. My wife leaves home full of strength but returns tired.” Azumah notes that Judith’s work has gained recognition within the rehabilitation field, with many centers seeking her assistance.
Beneficiaries of Judith’s center, such as Madam Agnes, attest to the transformative impact of her work. “My life changed dramatically due to the valuable advice I received and the way she guided me through my sessions… She is always polite and respectful to everyone.”
Madam Agnes adds, “She doesn’t even charge for her services; all she wants is for us, as women, to do well.”
Judith’s center relies on self-funding, with patients’ families covering upkeep costs. Despite the challenges, Judith remains committed to her mission, with plans to establish a treatment center for young girls, increase community engagement, and provide vocational training and educational opportunities.
As Judith looks to the future, she remains dedicated to helping women overcome addiction. “I have seen so many lives lost to addiction, and it’s a blessing to see people live and thrive instead of succumbing to addiction.” Her selflessness and commitment to her work make her a true hero of change in the fight against addiction.
The MTN Ghana Foundation’s Heroes of Change initiative is recognizing and celebrating individuals who are making extraordinary contributions to their communities. Now in its 7th edition, the initiative aims to inspire others to take action and effect positive change by highlighting the stories and achievements of unsung heroes like Judith Kokui.
The MTN Ghana Foundation’s vision is to create sustainable opportunities that impact communities and touch lives. Through the Heroes of Change initiative, the foundation is demonstrating its dedication to driving social change and empowering individuals in underserved communities.
According to the foundation, “By celebrating the achievements of unsung heroes like Judith, we are inspiring a new generation of leaders and change-makers to take action and create positive change in their communities.”
The Heroes of Change initiative is a testament to the foundation’s commitment to driving social change and creating sustainable opportunities that impact communities. By embracing innovation and nurturing effective collaborations, the foundation is empowering individuals in underserved communities to take action and effect positive change.
Through this initiative, the MTN Ghana Foundation is shining a light on the remarkable work of individuals like Judith, who are making a meaningful difference in the lives of others. By sharing their stories and achievements, the foundation hopes to inspire others to follow in their footsteps and create positive change in their communities.
