Eighty-eight women and girls from the Nyamirama Sector in Kayonza District have completed a year-long training course in tailoring and handicrafts.
The participants are now ready to innovate and compete in the labour market, using their new skills to fight unemployment and break the cycle of poverty.
Building Skills for a Brighter Future
Throughout the program, the trainees learned valuable techniques—from sewing bags and designing various locally made garments to crafting shoes, belts, and other leather goods. These skills are not only practical; they also empower women and girls with the expertise needed to start their small businesses and secure a sustainable income.
Personal Stories of Transformation
Tuyishime Josiane from the Gikaya Village in Nyamirama shared her inspiring journey. “I was fortunate to be one of those trained in tailoring by Women for Women Rwanda,” she explained. “I moved from the list of the unemployed to becoming a confident and respected member of my community. The goal now is to innovate and continue progressing.”
Her story underscores how access to quality training can transform lives, helping individuals overcome hardships such as the inability to afford even basic necessities like pants or shoes.
A Message from Our Program Leadership
Our Program Director, Clemence Wawuda Bideri, encouraged the graduates to embrace their new skills fully. “From the beginning, we taught financial management and instilled a spirit of initiative. We wanted each participant to think creatively about income-generating activities and execute them with excellence,” she said. “This approach not only leads to personal prosperity but also enables these women and girls to break free from the hardships they once faced.”
Community Impact Beyond Skills Training
Tunda Catherine, the CNF Coordinator in Kayonza District, highlighted that unemployment is at the heart of many community challenges, including theft, prostitution, risky behaviours, and family disputes. She expressed confidence that by applying their new skills, the trainees will not only improve their own livelihoods but also serve as catalysts for positive change in their communities. “The steps taken by these newly trained individuals will help protect them from engaging in harmful activities,” she noted. “In addition, they will influence the outlook of those around them, thereby reducing the broader impacts of unemployment.”
Looking Ahead: Growing Through Unity
Following the certification of their new competencies, the women and girls have formed groups to share ideas and work together on expanding their ventures. Recognising their potential, the District Administration has begun advocating on their behalf and is partnering with these groups to meet the requirements for forming cooperatives. This support is expected to open even broader markets for their products, both locally and beyond.
Together, we celebrate these courageous steps toward self-sufficiency and community transformation. We remain committed to empowering more women and girls to unlock their potential and write their own stories of success.