Young Achievers for Development (YAD), in partnership with Gift of the Givers Foundation, is transforming lives in Blantyre rural east through its Atsikana Tiwale Project.
As part of the initiative, five outstanding students who completed Level 3 in Tailoring and Fashion Design at the Girls Shine Skills Development Center have been awarded scholarships to learn advanced sewing techniques using electric machines.
This development is a milestone in YAD’s mission to empower girls and women economically.
By equipping these young women with skills, the programme not only enhances their craft but also strengthens their ability to achieve financial independence.
The survey revealed that many adolescent girls resort to risky relationships to meet basic needs such as toiletries and school snacks, underscoring the urgent need for economic empowerment.
Through its flagship initiative, the Girls Shine Academy, YAD provides essential skills such as tailoring, sausage-making, cake-baking, soap-making, and farming to girls aged 12 to 24.
These practical skills foster entreprenuership and create dignified livelihood opportunities, reducing the likelihood of girls engaging in exploitative practices.
“This programme is about more than just skills. It’s about giving these girls a voice and the confidence to take charge of their futures,” said Wiskes Ntalika, the programmes Coordinator.
“When women are empowered economically, they can stand against gender-based violence and contribute meaningfully to their communities.”
With plans to enroll over 20 more girls in January 2025, YAD’s efforts aim to reach 4,000 adolescent girls and young women across 39 villages within Traditional Authority Somba.
Targeting schools such as Mpapa, Tapani, Khola, and Mangomba, the programme provides opportunities for girls to become self-reliant.
Since its establishment in 2019, YAD’s programmes have equipped over 35 young women with skills, knowledge.
As Malawi joins the world in fighting against Gender-Based Violence amongst women and girls, YAD stands as a beacon of hope, demonstrating how skill-building and education can empower girls to overcome challenges and shape their destinies.
