In search of a better life- the story of Namwanjje

Namwanje Grace, originally from Kagadi district, left in search of a better life. She came to Kyenjojo to stay with her maternal aunt, having dropped out of school in senior two. Helping at home was not enough, and Grace prayed for an opportunity that would change her life.

  In 2022, when she heard about the JESE Skill Up! program, Grace felt like her prayers had been answered. She applied and was lucky to pass the interview.

“I enrolled for the tailoring trade and never looked back since my focus has always been on fashion designing,” Grace noted.  “Throughout the training period, we learnt about business, customer service, saving, and entrepreneurship.” She added.

 Following the 6 months duration, an assessment was conducted, and Grace was lucky yet again to have passed and continued for an additional 2 months before graduation.  During the graduation, Grace received her start-up kits, though she did not start immediately.

Grace worked as a mobile money operator with the hope of raising funds for her business. She worked for 7 months, saved money, and started the tailoring business in Kyenjojo town. Due to high demands, rent, and low sales, Grace made a bold decision and relocated to Butunduzi Town Council, Rwebaale village, where she rented a single room for four months at 50,000 per month.

Two years since opening her business, Grace has purchased another sewing machine, bought a smartphone worth 400,000 to continue communicating with her clients as well as get better designs online,  and trained three other ladies, one of whom now runs her own tailoring business.

Additionally, Grace is a member of 2 savings groups where she saves 30,000 per week and receives her savings at the end of the year.

“I am now able to give myself a better life, support my parents and siblings, thanks to the Skill Up! program.”

Grace plans to continue supporting other girls in the community through training to better themselves.

I want to appreciate JESE and the WHH, the funder for believing in the youth, for the support, and for the continued visits.