Sakhile: From World Vision Beneficiary to Empowered Entrepreneur
Meet Sakhile, a 23-year-old entrepreneur, artisan, and visionary from Shewula Inkhundla, Eswatini. Sakhile's story is a testament to the transformative power of child sponsorship.
Facing Hardship:
Sakhile's journey began with hardship. When she was just two years old, she lost her father. Her mother, lacking financial resources, struggled to meet the family's basic needs. However, she possessed a valuable skill: sewing.
World Vision's Intervention:
In 2017, World Vision's Shewula Area Programme stepped in, supporting Sakhile's mother's sewing group, Siyatfutfuka Bomake, with one industrial and six domestic sewing machines. This intervention significantly increased their production capacity and income, allowing Sakhile's mother to build a house for her family and provide better for her children.
Inspired by her Mother:
Witnessing her mother's resilience and hard work, Sakhile developed a passion for sewing herself. By the age of 16, her talent blossomed as she began creating impressive sewing pieces.
Beyond Sewing:
World Vision's support for Sakhile extended beyond her mother's sewing group. As a registered child under World Vision Sponsorship Programme, she received crucial assistance in the form of: School fees contributions, school supplies (school bags, uniforms, stationery), Clothing through the Gifts-In-Kind program and toiletries.
Lindiwe, Sakhile's mother, shares how World Vision's intervention has impacted their lives:
"Our sewing group has become a beacon of hope, not just for us, but also for the youth in our community. We teach them sewing, which keeps them engaged and away from negative influences. The sewing machines weren't just a one-time benefit; they continue to ensure we have food and can provide for our children."
Education and Beyond:
Recognizing the importance of both academic and vocational skills, Sakhile enrolled at the Mpaka Vocational Skills Training Centre after completing her Form 5 education, with support from Young Heroes. She graduated in 2021, and her life has transformed for the better.
Today, Sakhile is the only female artisan at her workplace in Simunye and also runs a successful side business in sewing. Additionally, her skills as a nail technician allow her to diversify her income streams, making her a true woman of multiple talents.
Looking Forward:
Sakhile views her achievements as just the beginning. "I dream of owning a business one day, where I can empower others by creating job opportunities, just as I was empowered," she shares.
World Vision Eswatini is incredibly proud of Sakhile and the incredible journey she has taken. Her story serves as a powerful reminder of the lasting impact that support and opportunity can have on individuals and communities.