Fund a Small Business Grant in Southern Africa

Dear Supporters,

As part of GVI Trust vocational training in Zimbabwe, we are currently collaborating with local NGOs to ensure that the program is holistic, and not simply a temporary solution for youth to get skills. This is an idea which has been proposed as a continuation to ensure that youth do not only get the skills necessary, but an honest chance to start their own enterprise.

In October 2019, the GVI Trust started to collaborate with local NGOs in Zimbabwe to provide vocational skills to youth who for various reasons did not have access to university. As part of the project, they got to sign up for certified carpentry training to get the skills necessary to gain employment, or start their own business. In conjunction with the technical skills, the students had to attend life skills classes which focused on anything from entrepreneurship and savings to domestic violence and HIV prevention. This is to prepare the students for life after vocational training and complement the skills which they missed out on in secondary school. Whilst the vocational training is a key tool to break the cycle of poverty of youth in Zimbabwe, some individuals will require further assistance to reach the level of independence which is required. Often, without the starting capital the skills they gained will not be utilised, or maintained as students do not have the funds to purchase the initial tools, and resources required to start their own informal business. This is where GVI wants to take the project to the next level. To ensure that the skills taught are utilised and bring true value, we are in collaboration with local NGOs to provide microloans in form of credit from rural suppliers of timer and tools. This way, GVI Trust can provide the funds to cover any initial purchases of students who have participated in the training and once the carpenter is starting to earn an income, they will be required to pay back the funds. 

Whilst the vision is clear, there is still a long way to go, particularly in fundraising to ensure that the funds are secured for the initiative which will launch in spring 2020.

Development projects are not about quick fixes, and once off initiatives for locals to take part of. It is about holistic work to ensure that all steps in the process are accounted for and that the initiative provides support the entire way. However, none of this would be possible without the support from all of our amazing donors, fundraisers and supporters from all over the world. Your contribution has an incredible impact on future entrepreneurs in Zimbabwe and we believe that together we can make a difference in this world. 

With Gratitude,

Zimbabwe Micro-Loans