By Tilda Christensson | Head of Project Development
Dear Supporters,
When we drove out to the rural communities outside of Norton in Zimbabwe, the local partners informed me that the situation was quite extreme. Many people had never left the village and let alone had dreams of making their own money. The GVI Trust knew that this is where real impact can happen.
The Zimbabwean social worker had a week earlier announced that people interested in participating in cosmetology training should attend an information session arranged by GVI Trust and their local partners. What we didn’t know was that over 15 young mothers would greet us as we drove on the dirt road leading up to the school where we were holding the session. The ladies were full och questions, hope and curiosity of the programme which was designed to cater for the need of cosmetologist in the area. Beading and weaving hair is a huge industry in Zimbabwe, and even the women in the rural communities ensure to invest in hair. This is considered to be important to remain hope of a better life and the idea of dressing for success. The women we met themselves currently seeked such services outside of the community, and walked far to get it. The idea was to bring the service there and keep the funds circulating within rather than outside the community. After showing interviews of previous participants, answering questions and reiterating the importance of commitment, we left the community behind hearing chattering behind us. Now, a month later, 13 people have started the technical training of braiding harr, doing nails and providing facials coupled with life skills of entrepreneurship, savings but also the issues of domestic violence and HIV/AIDS.
The effort to support people in Zimbabwe with opportunities to learn skills to become independent and earn money is crucial to get the economy going after the massive crash with hit the nation in 2007-2008. This work would not be possible without your generous donations, fundraising and support. We cannot wait to update you on how the women are taking advantage of this opportunity and change their lives.
Thank you for your donations, fundraisers and support!
With Gratitude,
Zimbabwe Youth Independence
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