Maisala Ernest
Judicial Assistant, Victim Offender Prison Care Support (VOPS)/ Ministry of Justice, Cameroon
Meet Maisala Ernest, a remarkable individual who has transformed his life's challenges into a beacon of hope for others. Born in 1976 in Cameroon's Extreme Nord region, has navigated a path marked by resilience, determination, and a passion for rehabilitation.
Maisala attended a government secondary school in Yagoua before moving to Douala, where he worked as a laborer and later in a manufacturing company. However, in 2002, his life took a dramatic turn when he was incarcerated for five years in the country’s largest prison, Douala Central Prison New-bell. During this time, he collaborated with Victim Offender Prison Care Support (VOPS), acquiring valuable skills in crafting bags and other beaded items. He also played a crucial role in educating fellow detainees about health issues, including tuberculosis and HIV/AIDS.
After his release in 2007, Maisala joined VOPS' rehabilitation center for ex-inmates, where he learned his bread and pastry bakery skills. He then pursued a career as a Judicial Assistant, working closely with VOPS to facilitate prisoners' cases, provide advice, and guide inmates in choosing trade apprenticeships. Through his work, Maisala has successfully listened to over 1,000 inmates annually and secured approximately 500 court decisions, including cases involving lost files or abusive detention.
