The Leutrim Hoxha Tailoring Center in Kabarore, Gatsibo District, is creating life-changing opportunities for young women and teenage mothers. Established through a collaboration between the Zakat Foundation of America, The Peace Maker Institute, and the Abdallah Kiromba Foundation, the center offers specialized vocational training in tailoring and sewing.
This initiative not only equips participants with valuable skills but also empowers them to build sustainable livelihoods, fostering independence and resilience in their communities.
Over 60 young women and men have enrolled in the program since its inception in May. The center offers a safe space for teenage mothers to learn and grow while balancing their family responsibilities. It also provides a lifeline for unemployed youth in the region, offering essential skills and job opportunities.
In four months, the first batch of participants have acquired foundational tailoring skills, including garment cutting, sewing, and machine operation.
Many of the teenage mothers are now capable of producing simple clothing items, such as baby clothes for their children. For most, this is their first experience with technical training, and it has boosted their confidence. “After four months, I’ve learned enough to start taking small jobs from my neighbors,” shared 22-year-old Saphina Nyirahatangimana from Gatoki cell.
Philideus Uwamurera and Violet Niyomungeri, both young mothers, have also expressed their appreciation for the opportunity to learn tailoring and improve their livelihoods.
Honolyne Uwingeneye, another teenage mother, highlighted the challenges she faced while balancing childcare and training. She emphasized the need for additional support, such as a childcare facility, to help participants focus on their studies.
Oliver Rukundo, a male participant, expressed his confidence in his ability to tailor any type of clothing after completing the program. Daine Kabanyana also thanked the foundations for providing this valuable opportunity.
Local community leaders have praised the initiative for its positive impact on poverty and unemployment in the region. The center’s program is particularly important in rural Rwanda, where access to vocational training is limited.
The first batch of beneficiaries will graduate in November and receive certificates.
The program will then welcome a new batch of participants.
