By Kate Schelbe | Executive Director
Thanks to your support, Bertha is not only breaking barriers—she’s powering progress and lighting the way for others.
After completing her Level Three Electrical Engineering program at Kigoma VETA, Bertha stepped into a bold new role as the only woman on her electrician team. Each day begins with a planning meeting alongside her five male colleagues. From there, she moves into the field to troubleshoot and maintain the machines that power her company—from sugarcane grinders to electricity generators. Using advanced diagnostic tools, she identifies issues, makes repairs, and installs new systems to keep everything running smoothly.
Though the only woman on her team, Bertha is never alone. She told us her colleagues treat her like a sister—offering respect, mentorship, and collaboration through every challenge.
Bertha’s story is a powerful reminder: when girls are given the chance to learn, they become beacons of strength and hope for entire communities.
Her light continues to shine beyond her job. In addition to her full-time work, Bertha consults for We Care Solar, a nonprofit bringing reliable solar energy to maternity wards across Tanzania. Through this work, she’s helping ensure mothers and babies have the light and power they need to survive and thrive.
Bertha is also thriving financially. She earns enough to support herself and uplift those around her. She pays school fees and provides supplies for her four younger siblings. She’s even building a home for her parents. Bertha is securing a brighter future for her entire family.
Perhaps most inspiring is Bertha’s drive to continue learning. Just four months into her role, she’s already asked her employer to support further education and training. Her goal is to become the company’s first female electrical engineer.
When we spoke with Bertha, her pride and joy were unmistakable. She loves her work—and she knows she’s only just getting started.
This is the impact of your investment: powerful, passionate young women using their education to spark change. Thank you for lighting the path forward—for Bertha, and for so many others like her.
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